Benue Community Probes Viral ‘Underage Marriage’ Amid Conflicting Reports on Bride’s Age

Leaders of the Ikurav-Ya community in Kwande Local Government, Benue State, have launched an investigation into a controversial underage marriage after the couple’s pre-wedding photos went viral online.

According to the council’s findings, the bride, Angel, was reportedly born in 2006, completed her secondary education last year, and both families gave full consent to the union. She is also said to be 12 weeks pregnant.

However, local activist Zege Orkwande, who conducted a personal inquiry, claimed the girl is actually 15 years old, an orphan, and staying with her aunt who could no longer fund her education. He added that she became pregnant before sitting her SSCE exams, and expressed concern about the ethics of marrying off a girl at such a young age.

The council said the investigation was necessary to clarify misinformation and shed light on the matter, while Orkwande urged caution before supporting the marriage, stressing the long-term consequences for underage girls.

The wedding is reportedly scheduled for December 18, 2025, as debates over child marriage continue to spark public outcry.