Man Arrested for Forcing Underage Daughter into Marriage

The Commissioner for Women and Social Welfare, Ify Obinabo, has instructed that the case be taken to court to ensure justice for the children. She urged parents to prioritize their children's well-being and direct them towards a safe and healthy future, rather than pushing them into early marriages that can destroy their lives.

In a shocking case of child abuse and exploitation, the Anambra State Government has arrested Uzochukwu Okoli for giving his underage daughter's hand in marriage to a 34-year-old man, Chinedu N. The arrest came after the daughter, Chioma, now 16, reported the ill-treatment she suffered at the hands of her father and husband to the state Ministry of Women and Social Welfare.

According to Chioma, her father forced her to marry a 70-year-old man at the age of 14, but she ran away and returned to her father's house. He then gave her to Chinedu N as a wife, subjecting her to a life of physical and emotional abuse. Chioma alleged that her husband would beat her and even urinate in her mouth, forcing her to flee with her nine-month-old baby.

Okoli claimed that his daughter was 18 or 20 years old, but Chioma's testimony revealed the truth about her age and the horrific experiences she endured. When arrested, Okoli threatened to harm his daughters if he was released from prison, highlighting the gravity of the situation.

The Commissioner for Women and Social Welfare, Ify Obinabo, has instructed that the case be taken to court to ensure justice for the children. She urged parents to prioritize their children's well-being and direct them towards a safe and healthy future, rather than pushing them into early marriages that can destroy their lives.

Both Okoli and Chinedu N will face charges in court, and the state government's swift action sends a strong message against child abuse and exploitation.

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