Ondo State Police Rescue Teen from Forced Marriage, Father Blames Poverty

Police in Idoani, Ondo State, have successfully intervened to stop a planned forced marriage, rescuing a 15-year-old girl from her father, who confessed that poverty drove his decision. The prompt action followed a tip from a vigilant community member.

The father, identified as Ayoola Sunday, along with the intended groom, known as “Santo,” and Santo’s 22-year-old son, Asere Kehinde, were apprehended by police detectives. Asere reportedly confessed to arranging the marriage and offering the father money in exchange for the girl. This incident unfolded as local youths were mobilizing to prevent the marriage, nearly leading to a clash with the girl’s family before police arrived.

Following her rescue, the teenager was taken to a local hospital for medical examination and care. The State Commissioner of Police, Adebowale Lawal, strongly condemned the act, labeling it a clear case of child abuse and exploitation. Lawal emphasized that the police command has a zero-tolerance policy for child marriage, gender-based violence, and any form of exploitation.

The Commissioner stressed that parents have a fundamental duty to protect their children, not to trade their future for financial gain. He assured the public that the suspects remain in custody and will be prosecuted fully to send a strong message and deter others from similar actions.