The Ghanaian government has lauded the public for its vigilance and dedication to safeguarding the rights and welfare of children, following widespread apprehension over reports of the purported marriage of a 12-year-old girl to the Gborbu Wulomo-Shitse on March 30, 2024, in Nungua.
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In a statement released by the Information Ministry on April 5, the government, in collaboration with the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Interior, and the Greater Accra Coordinating Council, affirmed its commitment to thoroughly investigating the matter and taking appropriate action.
The government emphasized its priority in ensuring the safety and wellbeing of the child involved, as articulated in the statement: “The child has been taken by the Ghana Police Service and the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection to a place of safety. She is doing well and has been visited by the Minister Designate and other officials from the Ministry of Gender, Children, and Social Protection.”
Moreover, the Ministry of Gender has taken proactive steps to provide necessary support to the child, including counseling services, medical attention, and caregiving, to ensure her emotional and physical recovery.
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A dedicated case worker has been assigned to oversee the child’s welfare and ensure that all protective measures are strictly adhered to.
The response from the government comes in the wake of public outcry following the traditional marriage rites performed by Nuumo Borketey Laweh XXXIII, also known as Gborbu Wulomo.
Despite claims from the traditional council asserting that the ceremony was a betrothal rather than a marriage, concerns persisted regarding the legality and ethical implications of the union.
The statement further indicated that the Ghana Police Service has initiated an investigation into the matter, obtaining a statement from the Gborbu Wulomo in the presence of his legal representative.
Additionally, the cooperation of the child’s parents in providing essential information has been pivotal in advancing the investigation process.
Acknowledging the significance of traditional authorities in the community, the Minister of Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs has engaged in extensive discussions with the traditional leaders of Nungua to ensure that the best interests of the child are upheld throughout the proceedings.
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