Nigerian clause that allows child marriages

Nigeria begins child marriages by enacting and enforcing an a constitutional clause that re defines the age of majority at which Nigerians can renounce their citizenship.

 The clause specified that females should be considered fully of age regardless of their actual age if they are married. The amendment initially passed was reconsidered and voted down because it conflicted with Islamic law.

Currently child marriage is still banned under Nigerian law.

Ike Ekweremadu, deputy leader of the Senate, said at a press briefing in Abuja: "I want to appeal to Nigerians to please show understanding, to possibly read this section and understand that the issue has nothing to do with early marriage.

"Essentially, it has to do with the renunciation of citizenship. So you have to give it a proper perspective. I want to assure them that in the future, we are ready to revisit it if Nigerians feel strongly about it.