NAWOJ Hails Enugu Govt’s Swift Action Against Underage Marriage
The Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Enugu State Chapter, has hailed the Enugu State Government for swiftly stopping an unlawful underage marriage involving a 15-year-old girl, Precious Oyiga, in Enugu Ezike, Igbo-Eze North Local Government Area.
In a statement jointly signed by its Chairperson, Comrade Ngozi Ngene, and Secretary, Nnenna Igwe, NAWOJ described the government’s intervention as “prompt, courageous, and decisive,” noting that it reaffirmed the State’s determination to protect minors and enforce the Enugu State Child Rights Law.
According to the association, the Commissioner for Children, Gender Affairs and Social Development, Mrs. Ngozi Enih, led a rapid response team that moved to stop the illegal marriage, ensured the arrest of all parties involved, secured the young victim in protective custody, and initiated full investigations into the incident.
NAWOJ said such swift action sends a strong message that child abuse, exploitation, and harmful cultural practices will not be tolerated in Enugu State.
The association also commended the government for assuming full responsibility for Precious’ welfare, rehabilitation, and education—a move it described as “a vital step that restores hope and safeguards her future.”
The group further acknowledged the roles played by 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 collaboration, NAWOJ said, demonstrated the impact of strong institutional partnerships in preventing gender-based violence.
While applauding the intervention, the association urged continued vigilance and intensified community sensitisation to ensure no girl in the state suffers forced marriage, abuse, or exploitation.
NAWOJ reaffirmed its commitment to advocating for the rights and protection of women and children across Enugu State.
EDITOR
Sam Udekwe is a journalist working in the News and Current Affairs department, Enugu State Broadcasting Service (ESBS) Enugu. He is well trained in all genres of journalistic venture.
Mr Sam read Mass Communication, graduating all with Distinction in National Diploma, Higher National Diploma and Postgraduate Diploma at IMT, Enugu and Madonna University, Okija, Anambra state, as well as M.Sc Mass Communication with Second Class(Upper Division) at National Open University of Nigeria.
He is the immediate past NUJ Chairman, Enugu state.
samowailo@gmail.com
