By, Omowumi Hannah, Ibadan

A gender equality advocate and Auditor for the Yari 774 Initiative for Asiwaju in Oyo State, Hon. Temitope Olawoyin, has condemned the growing trend of child marriage in Oyo State, Nigeria and Africa.

In a statement issued by her Special Assistant on Media, Public Communications and Publicity, Olawale Kunle, to commemorate the International Day of the Girl Child on Sunday, Olawoyin said the country must provide proper education to curb the trend.

She described womanhood as flexible, unique and captivating, noting that it must be well protected for healthy societal competition.

The All Progressives Congress (APC) grassroots mobiliser said the continued growth of child marriage in society is a testament to insensitivity to womenfolk, warning that if not addressed, the trend may deepen socio-economic inequality.

The public administration expert called on parents, religious leaders and other agents of socialisation to discourage child marriage and promote equal and accessible education for all.

She said the country should prioritise women development as it is done in the United Kingdom, citing Kemi Badenoch and others who have projected real talent and leadership endowment in the female gender.

The APC aspirant for the 2027 Oyo State House of Assembly election, while commending improvement in female inclusion in representation, appealed for the general adoption and approval of 35 per cent women inclusion in governance to ensure gradual female development.

Meanwhile, Olawoyin urged female children to believe positively in themselves, remain focused and be ready to take up leadership roles in their respective societies.