An Anglican Bishop and Rector of
Crowther Graduate Theological Seminary, Rt. Rev (Prof) Andrew Igenoza has
called on other clerics and well-meaning Nigerians to denounce girl-child
marriages across the country.
The cleric, speaking against the
backdrop of a forced marriage between a 14 year-old girl, Habiba Isa and Jamiu
Lawal, allegedly brokered by the Emir of Katsina, Alhaji Abdul-Muminu Usman,
described the act as “immoral” which must be condemned in its entirety.
He added that apart from the trauma
associated with child abuse, the health implication of Vesico Vaginal Fistula,
(VVF) could have devastating effects on the victim.
Prof. Igenoza who spoke at an event
to unveil the programme to commemorate Crowther Week, held in Abeokuta, Ogun
state capital, however, wondered how a 14 year old girl would be able to
withstand the rigour of child birth. He maintained that eminent Nigerians
should condemn the practice.
“This issue of child marriage is an
immoral act that needs to be denounced. I still find it difficult to comprehend
how a 14 year old girl, who is still a child, will have strength to carry and
deliver a baby?
“Apart from this, the health issue
of Vesico Vaginal Fistula (VVF) associated with this kind of immoral act, could
be devastating and have permanent scar on the victim of child marriage.”
Speaking further on the activities
lined up to commemorate Crowther Week, the rector, said the week was conceived
in order to highlight the missionary activities of late Bishop Ajayi Crowther
and his contribution to the development of Christianity in Nigeria.
He added that the commemorative
event which is expected to have the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, Alake of
Egbaland, Oba Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo and erstwhile Minister of Information,
Prof. Jerry Gana in attendance, will commence on Wednesday, November 2 with
Holy Communion Service and end on Sunday, November 6 with a thanksgiving
service.
Daily Sun
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