The Minister of Women Affairs, Uju Kennedy-Ohanenye, has taken formal action by requesting a legal order from the Inspector General of Police (IGP) to prevent Speaker Abdulmalik Sarkindaji of the Niger State Assembly from overseeing the proposed mass marriage of 100 orphaned girls. This proactive step comes as a direct response to the speaker’s highly controversial plan to provide marriage support for these vulnerable girls, many of whom tragically lost their parents in devastating bandit attacks in the Mariga local government area.
The speaker’s initiative, framed as part of his constituency project and scheduled for May 24th, has raised grave concerns and sparked outcry from various quarters. By seeking legal intervention, the Minister of Women Affairs, Uju Kennedy -Ohanenye aims to halt this contentious mass marriage event until a thorough examination of the legalities and implications can be conducted. The move underscores the government’s commitment to upholding the rights and safeguarding the well-being of children, especially those in precarious situations.
Minister of Women Affairs, Uju Kennedy-Ohanenye: Outright Rejection of Proposed Mass Child Marriage
During a high-profile press conference held in Abuja, the Minister of Women Affairs, Uju Kennedy-Ohanenye, left no room for ambiguity as she firmly and unequivocally expressed her outright rejection of the Niger State Assembly Speaker’s plans to oversee a mass marriage of 100 orphaned girls. Mrs. Kennedy-Ohanenye highlighted the deeply unacceptable nature of such a proposed mass child marriage, underscoring the grave concerns it raises from both legal and ethical standpoints.
Recognizing the seriousness of the matter, Minister of Women Affairs, Uju Kennedy-Ohanenye emphasized that a comprehensive investigation has been promptly initiated to uncover the full details and far-reaching implications surrounding this controversial initiative. This thorough examination aims to shed light on the circumstances surrounding the proposed mass marriage, including the ages and consent of the girls involved, as well as the motivations and intentions behind the speaker’s plans. The investigation’s findings will be crucial in guiding the appropriate course of action and ensuring the protection of the rights and well-being of the vulnerable children at the center of this deeply troubling situation.
Invoking Child’s Right Act and Consent Concerns
In addressing the contentious issue of the proposed mass marriage of 100 orphaned girls in Niger State, the Minister of Women Affairs, Uju Kennedy-Ohanenye, firmly underscored the paramount importance of upholding the principles enshrined in the Child’s Right Act. She emphasized that the future prospects and overall well-being of these vulnerable children must be the primary consideration, taking precedence over any other agenda or initiative.
Raising critical concerns, Minister of Women Affairs, Uju Kennedy-Ohanenye highlighted the potential lack of consent from the girls involved in the proposed mass marriage, a crucial factor that cannot be overlooked or compromised. Furthermore, she stressed the urgent need to verify the ages of these orphaned girls, as well as thoroughly investigate the identities and backgrounds of the prospective grooms. These crucial steps are essential to ensure that the rights and best interests of the children are safeguarded, and that any potential exploitation or violation of their fundamental rights is promptly addressed and prevented.
Legal Action and Injunction Sought
Demonstrating an unwavering commitment to safeguarding the rights and well-being of vulnerable children, the Minister of Women Affairs, Uju Kennedy-Ohanenye, has taken decisive legal action. In a resolute move, she has filed a formal petition with the Inspector General of Police, seeking an injunction to halt the controversial plans of the Niger State Assembly Speaker regarding the proposed mass marriage of 100 orphaned girls.
The injunction sought by Minister of Women, Uju Kennedy-Ohanenye aims to prevent any further actions related to the proposed mass child marriage until a comprehensive and thorough investigation is conducted. This crucial step ensures that all relevant facts, legalities, and potential violations of child rights and consent are meticulously examined and addressed. The legal intervention underscores the grave concerns surrounding the speaker’s plans and the urgent need to prioritize the protection of these vulnerable children, whose future prospects and well-being must be the paramount consideration.
Collaboration and Thorough Investigation Demanded
In a call to action, Minister of Women Affairs, Uju Kennedy-Ohanenye has emphasized the need for a collaborative and multi-stakeholder approach to thoroughly investigate the proposed mass child marriage in Niger State. This comprehensive investigation demands the involvement of relevant authorities, child rights advocates, and community leaders to ensure that no stone is left unturned in scrutinizing all aspects of this deeply concerning issue.
Minister of Women, Uju Kennedy Ohanenye-approach underscores the gravity of the situation and the imperative to leave no room for error or oversight. The investigation must delve into the critical details surrounding the proposed marriages, including verifying the ages and ensuring the full consent of the girls involved. Additionally, a thorough examination of the identities and intentions of the prospective grooms is essential to safeguard against any potential exploitation or violation of the children’s rights. By fostering collaboration and leveraging the collective expertise of diverse stakeholders, the investigation aims to uphold the highest standards of protection for these vulnerable children and ensure that their best interests are prioritized above all else.
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