Police Command in Ondo State has arrested three persons over alleged child marriage in Idoani, Ose Local Government Area.
The command’s spokesperson, DSP Olushola Ayanlade, said in a statement on Tuesday that the incident occurred on Aug. 28 around 6:53 p.m.
He explained that operatives foiled the marriage after receiving intelligence from a community leader, who reported that a 15-year-old girl was about to be given out in marriage to 52-year-old Asere Sunday, popularly known as “Santo.”
Ayanlade said the girl was rescued at the venue and taken to the Reference Hospital, Igbatoro Road, Akure, for medical examination and care.
Police also arrested the principal suspect, Asere Sunday, alongside his son, Asere Kehinde, 22, and the victim’s father, Ayoola Sunday.
“During preliminary interrogation, the suspect admitted to offering money to the victim’s father in exchange for her hand in marriage, with plans already in place to conduct traditional rites,” Ayanlade said.
He added that the victim’s father claimed financial hardship influenced his decision.
The spokesperson said the suspects remain in custody and would be investigated and prosecuted to serve as a deterrent.
He urged parents, guardians, and community leaders to protect children in their care and resist compromising their future on the grounds of poverty or any other factor.
(NAN)