18-Year-Old Abuse Survivor Was Allegedly Married Off Without Father’s Knowledge — Activist
Human rights activist, Harrison Gwamnishu, has shared a fresh update on the case of Chisom, an 18-year-old lady who was rescued from an alleged abusive husband at a hospital in Isolo, Lagos.
Gwamnishu disclosed that the young woman was reportedly married off without the knowledge or consent of her father, who had been separated from her and her siblings for years.
In a social media post, the activist said preliminary findings showed that Chisom was only 15 years old when her relationship with the man claiming to be her husband allegedly began.
According to him, Chisom and her siblings were taken away by members of their late mother’s family after their mother died several years ago. At the time, Chisom was said to be just seven years old.
The activist explained that the children’s father had been completely cut off from them and had not seen or heard from them until the video showing Chisom’s alleged abuse surfaced online.
Gwamnishu said a relative of Chisom’s father contacted him after the viral video began circulating, revealing that the father was unaware that his daughter had entered into any marriage.
He added that the father reportedly became depressed after losing his wife and being separated from his children.
“Chisom has endured a lot at such a young age. The physical and emotional scars she carries cannot be ignored. This is not the time to turn our backs on her. She deserves care, justice, and the opportunity to heal and rebuild her life,” Gwamnishu said.
He further revealed that Chisom initially pleaded with those who came to her rescue not to arrest the man she described as her husband.
However, Gwamnishu said he contacted the Lagos chapter of the Behind Bars Human Rights Foundation, led by Nta Amarachi Judith, to ensure the matter was properly handled.
The suspect was subsequently handed over to the Isheri-Oshun Divisional Police Headquarters, where his statement was taken and he was detained.
Police officers were also said to have visited Chisom at the hospital as investigations into the matter continue.
Gwamnishu said his Lagos State Director, Nta Amarachi Judith, is following up on the case while they await the outcome of the police investigation.
He stressed that Chisom needs protection, emotional support and justice, adding that all aspects of the matter must be thoroughly investigated.
Global Mirror News reports that the case has continued to spark concern online, with many Nigerians calling for justice and proper care for the teenager.
