Uju Kennedy-Ohanenye, the Minister of Women Affairs, announced on Friday that she has withdrawn her legal action regarding the planned marriages of 100 orphaned girls in Niger State.
An agreement has been reached with His Royal Highness, Alhaji Mohammed Muazu, Emir of Kontagora, and the Speaker of the Niger State House of Assembly to empower the girls through education and vocational training.
During a press briefing in Abuja, Ohanenye explained that while arranging marriages is one aspect, ensuring the prospective husbands can adequately care for the women is a critical issue.
This concern initially prompted her to seek a court injunction to prevent the marriages.
“The court injunction was obtained within 48 hours to stop the mass marriage of the hundred orphans. It’s unbelievable that such practices still occur in Nigeria,” said Ohanenye.
“As soon as I got the injunction, the Etsu of Nupe called me seeking peace, followed by the Emir of Kontagora visiting my office. We resolved the issue with decisions beneficial for these ladies.”
The Emir assured Ohanenye of a thorough investigation and confirmed that the marriages would not proceed until the investigation is complete. “This resolves the problem,” Ohanenye stated. “This issue is not about religion; I am doing my job as a mother.”
The Ministry of Women Affairs, in collaboration with the Speaker of the Niger State House of Assembly, Abdul Malik Sarkindaji, plans to empower these young women.
Those who wish to continue their education will be sent to school, while others who prefer to learn trades will receive vocational training and support for sustainable economic empowerment.
The Speaker highlighted that the village where these women reside is plagued by bandits, using it as a hideout. Ohanenye assured that President Ahmed Bola Tinubu will not stand by and will take action to address the situation, ensuring the safety and empowerment of these young women.
