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A man identified as Mr Uzochukwu Okoli has been arrested by the government of Anambra State for organizing the marriage of his underage daughter.
The suspect was detained after his daughter reported to the Ministry of Women and Social Welfare about the abuse she was suffering in the hand of her father and the man he conscripted her to marry.
While recounting her ordeal, the 16 year old girl whose mother is late said that their father transported them from Edo state, where they were pursuing their education, in order to find a partner for her.
She alleged that at the age of 14, she was initially forced to live with a man who was over 70 years old.
Also, after some time, she returned to her father’s house before eventually being sold off to Chinedu Nweke, a 34-year-old man.
Chioma, accompanied by her older sister, explained that her stay with Mr Chinedu has been an absolute nightmare as she has been subjected to physical abuses.
She said after series of abuse, she took the bold decision to flee with her 9-month-old baby.
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Meanwhile, in his defence, the father, Uzochukwu Okoli claimed that his daughter is 18 years old.
The angry father threatened to deal with the daughters if he regains his freedom.
However, the Commissioner for Women and Social Welfare, Ify Obinabo, has directed that the case be taken to court in order for the children to receive justice.
Obinabo stressed the importance of parents being careful of their children and guide them properly, rather than force them into early marriages that could ruin their futures.
She said Okoli and Chinedu Nweke will soon be charged to court.
