More knocks has come for the upper chamber of the National Assembly over its endorsement of Child Marriage in the country.
The Deputy Governor of Ekiti State, Prof Modupe Adelabu, described as unfortunate that those saddled with the responsibility to make laws that would guarantee the future of the country passed a motion to mortgage the future the Nigerian child.
Prof Adelabu wondered what guided Senators in passing a motion to legalise Child Marriage when the Constitution recognizes those below 18 as children, who cannot even vote during elections.
The deputy governor bared her mind on the controversial issue in Ado-Ekiti, the State capital at a public presentation of a book entitled: “Regaining Academic Excellence”, where she was the guest of honour.
Her words: “It is unfortunate that senators who were voted for to make laws that will move this nation forward are endorsing Child Marriage, a law that would terminate the future of children.
“It is agonizing for a girl who is below 18 to be forced into marriage or to be impregnated. A child is a child and not a bride or a groom.”Stating that the decision of the senators stood logic on its head, the deputy governor urged children, especially pupils, to resist any law that will compromise their future.“Don’t let anybody deceive you,” she said, “early marriage terminates your future. It is like living your future in the present. It stalls your opportunities. Say no to child marriage and child labour.”
The deputy governor reminded children of the health risks associated with teen pregnancy and unripe marriage, adding that teens often encounter difficulty at child birth.
Prof Adelabu stated that the Governor Kayode Fayemi-led administration has been doing its best through legislations from the House of Assembly to keep children in school, citing the free education policy in the state.
She reiterated the earlier promise by the state government to kit pupils in all public secondary schools with computer sets before the end of next year.
Last modified: July 23, 2013
