In a deeply troubling case that has sparked widespread public outcry, the Ghana Police Service has located and placed under police protection a 12-year-old girl who was allegedly married to a 63-year-old Ga priest in Nungua.
Nuumo Borketey Laweh XXXIII, the Gborbu Wulomo, faced severe criticism after a video of him marrying the 12-year-old girl, named Naa Okromo, circulated online.
The traditional marriage ceremony took place on Saturday, March 30, 2024, in Nungua. Gborbu Wulomo defended himself by asserting that the girl would not be required to fulfill marital duties.
However, the Police issued a brief statement emphasizing that swift action has been taken to ensure the safety and well-being of the young girl and her mother, who are currently under police protection.
The Ghana Police Service further stated that, in collaboration with the Ministry of Gender, Children, and Social Protection, as well as the Department of Social Welfare, measures have been initiated to provide necessary support and assistance to the girl during this difficult period.
The Paediatric Society of Ghana (PSG) has strongly condemned the marriage ceremony between the 63-year-old Ga priest and the 12-year-old girl.
In a statement dated April 1, 2024, the PSG expressed deep distress over the discussions on various media platforms regarding the reported child marriage in Accra.
“The PSG strongly condemns any act or perception or facilitation of Child Marriage. On the right to
refuse betrothal and marriage, The Children’s Act, 1998 states: No person shall force a child (age less than 18 years) to be betrothed, to be the subject of a dowry transaction or to be married.”
However, the GaDangme Council clarified that the relationship between the traditional Ga priest and the 12-year-old girl is merely a betrothal and not a marriage.
In a statement issued by its President, Ayikoi Otoo, on Monday, April 1, the Council explained that it had engaged with Gborbu Wulomo and some of his elders.
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“It is important to clarify that the traditional ruler has stated that the relationship with the underage girl is a betrothal and not a marriage. This distinction to us has altered the legal implications.”the statement read.
“We are inclined to side with the Gborbu Wulomo since the original reportage made the point that there was another ceremony that awaited the girl to purify and prepare her for procreation.”
