Examining Child Marriage in the Nigerian Constitution 1
The Nigerian 1999 Constitution is the supreme law of the land and serves as a guide for the country's governance and legal system. It outlines the rights, duties, and freedoms of citizens, including those related to child marriage. In this article, we will examine the provisions of the constitution regarding child marriage and its validity in Nigeria. Child marriage is defined as the union between a child and an adult or between two children below the age of 18. It is a widespread practice in many countries, including Nigeria, where it is estimated that 41% of girls are married before the age of 18. Child marriage is a human rights violation and has serious consequences for the health, education, and future of the child involved. The Nigerian 1999 Constitution recognizes the right of every individual to marry, but it also imposes certain restrictions to protect the welfare of children. Section 29(2) of the constitution states that no person shall be subjected to tortur...