The Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Enugu State Chapter, has praised the Enugu State Government for its swift and decisive intervention in stopping the unlawful underage marriage involving 15-year-old Precious Oyiga in Enugu Ezike, Igbo-Eze North Local Government Area.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!The association, led by its Chairperson, Comrade Ngozi Ngene, described the government’s actions as a courageous and timely response that reaffirmed the state’s commitment to protecting vulnerable children and enforcing the provisions of the Enugu State Child Rights Law.
According to NAWOJ, the prompt efforts of the Commissioner for Children, Gender Affairs and Social Development, Mrs. Ngozi Enih, and her team were instrumental in halting the illegal marriage. Their actions included the arrest of all individuals involved, placing the teenage victim under protective custody, and initiating a full-scale investigation into the incident. NAWOJ noted that these steps clearly signal the state’s firm stance against child abuse, exploitation, and harmful cultural practices.
The association further commended the Enugu State Government for taking full responsibility for Precious’ care, rehabilitation, and education. It described the decision as a vital intervention that restores hope and safeguards the girl’s future, while reflecting an administration that prioritizes the rights and wellbeing of the girl child.
NAWOJ also acknowledged the collaborative support of the Chairman of Igbo-Eze North LGA, Hon. Ogbonna Ogallah; the Member representing the constituency in the Enugu State House of Assembly, Hon. Clifford Nnaemeka Obe; and the Chairman of the Enugu State Civil Service Commission, Mr. Robinson Odo. Their contributions, the association noted, underscore the strength of partnerships in addressing gender-based violence and ensuring the protection of vulnerable members of society.
Comrade Ngozi Ngene urged stakeholders to maintain vigilance, intensify community sensitization, and sustain enforcement measures to ensure that no girl in Enugu State is subjected to underage marriage, abuse, or exploitation.
The statement was jointly endorsed by Comrade Ngozi Ngene, Chairperson, and Nnenna Igwe, Secretary.