A disturbing case of attempted child marriage has been uncovered in Idoani, Ose Local Government Area of Ondo State, where a man, identified as Ayoola Sunday, tried to marry off his 15-year-old daughter.

The plot was foiled after a community leader raised the alarm, prompting police detectives to storm the venue and rescue the teenager before the marriage could take place. She was later taken to the Reference Hospital in Akure for medical care and examination.

Investigations revealed that the would-be groom, known as “Santo,” alongside his 22-year-old son, Asere Kehinde, and the girl’s father, Ayoola Sunday, were all arrested. According to the police, the father had allegedly collected money in exchange for his daughter.

During interrogation, Asere admitted to arranging the marriage and confessed that financial inducements were offered to secure the union.

It was also gathered that tension had begun brewing in the community, as local youths mobilized to resist the marriage and were close to clashing with the victim’s family before police intervention calmed the situation.

Reacting to the incident, Ondo State Commissioner of Police, Adebowale Lawal, strongly condemned the act, describing it as a blatant case of child abuse and exploitation.

“The Command will not tolerate child marriage, gender-based violence, or any form of exploitation. Parents must protect their children instead of trading their future for money,” CP Lawal said.

He assured that all suspects are in custody and will face prosecution to serve as a deterrent to others.