The Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) of Gushegu, Hafiz Adam, has issued a strong warning to individuals involved in child marriage, stating that the assembly will not tolerate the practice and will continue to prosecute offenders.
Speaking during a meeting with the Parliamentary Select Committee on Local Government, Mr. Adam expressed deep concern over the increasing cases of child marriage in the municipality. He attributed the worrying trend to entrenched cultural practices that conflict with national laws protecting children.
He revealed that in September, one offender was successfully prosecuted and sentenced to five years in prison a clear indication that the law is being enforced. He emphasized that such legal actions will persist until the situation is brought under control.
“The practice is seriously affecting the future of children in this municipality,” Mr. Adam told journalists. “We will not allow culture to override the law. Offenders will be dealt with.”
In addition to the child marriage issue, the MCE highlighted a critical shortage of teachers in the municipality. He said the lack of teaching staff has placed a heavy burden on the few available teachers, many of whom are forced to handle multiple classes at once, negatively impacting the quality of education.
Mr. Adam called for urgent interventions to address both challenges to ensure the well-being and development of children in Gushegu.
