The Gombe State Government has strongly defended a 14-year-old girl who escaped a forced marriage in Taraba State.According to Asma’u Iganus, the Commissioner of Women Affairs and Social Development, the girl’s husband has filed legal proceedings against her for refusing to return home.She disclosed this on Friday during a visit to present relief items to the girl at the ministry.
The supplies included bags of rice, maize, sugar, macaroni, insecticide-treated nets, wrappers, stoves, and other essentials.Iganus stated, “The Gombe State Government remains committed to defending children’s rights and combating all forms of abuse, including forced and underage marriages, rape, and gender-based violence. We have assembled a legal team to ensure her protection and her right to continue her education, which she desires.”She further revealed that the girl’s husband, who already has two wives, allegedly subjected her to physical and emotional abuse. “He would invite others into the room to help him tie her to the bed and rape her without her consent,” Iganus said. “You can see the scars on her wrists. We will not allow this to continue.
We are going to Taraba to defend her and challenge any proceedings that violate her rights.”In addition to this case, Iganus highlighted efforts in other areas, such as the Aso area, where mentally challenged girls are being continuously raped, and Jauro Abare Zirin Gaza, where a two-year-old girl was raped by her stepfather.
She emphasized the government’s unwavering commitment to protecting minors from abuse.
The Gombe State Governor and the First Lady are deeply committed to fighting violence against women and girls. Their actions show the administration’s dedication to addressing child rights violations and ensuring the safety and well-being of our citizens,” she added.
The girl, who was forced into marriage against her will, recounted her ordeal: “About a month after I arrived there, my grandfather, in collusion with my parents, arranged my marriage without my consent. He began beating me and tying me to the bed, sometimes calling others to help him hold me down and rape me.”She expressed gratitude to the government for providing food, shelter, and other support:
The government has given me and my family food, bedding, and other assistance, including money.
They also promised to help me continue my education, which was halted after primary school.
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