The Anambra State Ministry of Women and Children Affairs has intervened in the case of a 15-year-old girl who is said to be married to a 56-year-old man.
The man, from Ozubulu, is said to be mentally challenged.
In a statement made available to Southern City News on Sunday, the Commissioner for Women and Children Affairs, Ndidi Mezue, denied that the ministry had dissolved the alleged marriage and taken custody of the girl.
Mrs Mezue, however, said the ministry had contacted the girl’s family and is working in partnership with the police, human rights activists, and other agencies to find a solution to the issue.
“The Anambra State Ministry of Women and Children Affairs wishes to inform the public that it has received a complaint about an alleged underage marriage involving a girl from Ihiala, who is married to a man from Ozubulu.
“The ministry is following up on this case as it continues to collaborate with several persons and organisations, including security agencies, towards a quick resolution.
“The ministry is in contact with the girl’s family, the Anambra State Police Command and other interested parties in the matter, including human rights activists.
“The ministry’s utmost concern at this period is the safety and well-being of the young girl in question, as well as the well-being of her young child,” she said.
