Ondo Police Rescue 15-Year-Old From Forced Marriage to 52-Year-Old Man
By Exponent News Akure, 3nd September, 2025
The Ondo State Police Command has thwarted an attempt to force a 15-year-old girl into marriage with a 52-year-old man in Idoani, Ose Local Government Area, describing the act as a clear case of child exploitation.
Acting on credible intelligence, officers from Idoani Division stormed the venue of the planned marriage on August 28, 2025, and rescued the minor before the ceremony could be held. The Police also arrested the prospective groom, identified as Asere Sunday, popularly called “Santo,” his 22-year-old son, Asere Kehinde, and the girl’s father, Ayoola Sunday, who allegedly consented to the arrangement in exchange for money.
According to the Command, the victim has since been taken to the Reference Hospital, Igbatoro Road, Akure, for medical examination and care. Preliminary investigation revealed that financial hardship had driven the father to agree to the exploitative marriage.
Youths in the community were reportedly mobilizing to resist the act before the swift intervention of the Police prevented both the illegal marriage and a possible breakdown of law and order.
Commissioner of Police, CP Adebowale Lawal, condemned the incident, stressing that the Command maintains zero tolerance for child abuse, forced marriage, and gender-based violence. He assured that the suspects would face diligent prosecution to serve as a deterrent.
The Command further urged parents and guardians to protect their children’s future rather than compromise it under economic pressure.
