Ondo CSO’s Demands End To Child Marriage

By Elizabeth Bamidele 

The Ondo State Chapter of the National Coalition of Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) has called for an end to child marriage in Ondo State.

The call was made recently after its strategic meeting in Akure, Ondo State.

Speaking at the meeting, the National Co-Chairman, Mr. Kolawole Olatosimi said the move is in collaboration with “Girls Not Brides,” a non-governmental organization working against child marriage.

According to him, there are legal frameworks against child marriage in Nigeria; however, they remain inadequate and ineffective, citing the Police Public Relations Officer’s remark that Nigeria’s criminal law applies to seven-year-old individuals.

He also emphasized the coalition’s resolve to engage community leaders, law enforcement agencies, and the media for effective campaigns against the menace.

Also speaking at the event was the representative of the National Orientation Agency (NOA), Mr. Akinniranye, who emphasized that public education on social issues such as child marriage can raise community awareness and cooperation in ending the challenges.

Members of the CSO who spoke, include Mrs. Olabisi, CEO of Restoration of the Dignity of Womanhood (ROTDOW), and Mrs. Folashade Bamigboye, Executive Director of Kids & Teens Resource Centre (K&TRC), concurred with the move against child marriage, pledging support respectively.