By Bashir Hassan Abubakar
The Bauchi State Action Committee on Gender-Based Violence, led by the Chairperson and First Lady of Bauchi State, Aisha Bala Mohammed, has handed over adolescents involved in an unauthorized marriage.
A statement by Zainab Garba Musa, Press Secretary to the First Lady, Bauchi State said the incident involved a young girl and boy who allegedly conducted marriage rites without parental consent or approval. Friends of the youths reportedly assumed the roles of guardians (Al-Wali) and Imam during the process.
The youths were apprehended by the Commander General of the Bauchi State Agency for Vigilante and Youth Empowerment, Alhaji Umar Shayi, following information received about unlawful marriage arrangements in the Bauchi metropolis.
Following their arrest, the adolescents were handed over to the Bauchi State Action Committee on Gender-Based Violence for necessary evaluation and intervention, in line with the committee’s mandate to protect young people.
After thorough deliberations by committee members at the Office of the First Lady, it was resolved that the matter be formally transferred to the Bauchi State Police Command for proper investigation.
The committee emphasized its continued commitment to protecting family values, promoting responsible social conduct among youths, and ensuring that legal processes are followed in all matters affecting adolescent welfare.
Parents and guardians were urged to monitor and guide their children carefully, ensuring that actions that run counter to societal and legal standards are prevented, while reinforcing the importance of family oversight and social responsibility.
