Constitution Review: Set 18 years as minimum age for marriage — CAN to Lawmakers

By Akintunde Jacobs, Akure

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), has recommended to the lawmakers to input in the ongoing nation’s constitution review, 18 years as minimum age for marriage by female citizens.

Olasupo Ayokunle, the CAN President, made the recommendation on Wednesday in Akure, the Ondo State capital while presenting the position of CAN before the Constitution Review Committee for the Southwest zone.

Ayokunle, who was represented by the Ondo state CAN chairman, John Oladapo said “we recommend that the constitution shall bring clarity and emphasis to recognising and affirming eighteen years as the AGR of maturity and that for sexual consent.

“Guarantee for the rights of women and girls, females, to contest or seek appointment based on equal opportunities that secure their active participation in politics.”

Speaking with journalists after the hearing, Peter Akpatason, the Chairman of the Southwest Constitution Review Centre for Ondo, Osun and Ekiti, promised that all submissions would be relayed to the House of Representatives.

According to him, no fewer than 35 proposals were submitted and presented before the committee.

Akpatason, however, disclosed that the exercise was not final, saying after the House must have collated the submissions, it would open another round of public hearing.