The Gborbu Wulomo shrine in Nungua has strongly defended the decision to marry a 12-year-old girl.
According to Nii Bortey Kofi Frankwa II, a spokesperson for the temple, the move is borne out of the desire to keep with the spirituality and traditions of the Ga-Dangbe state.
Controversy erupted following a marriage ceremony between the 63-year-old traditional priest, Nuumo Borketey Laweh Tsuru XXXIII and the 12-year-old bride, Naa Yomo Ayemuade.
The Gborbu Wulomo temple has defended its actions, stating that the minor had been designated to attend to one of the 99 deities of the Ga-Adangbe group, which required her to be a virgin.
Nii Bortey Kofi Frankwa II, also added that the minor was selected to fulfill a role within the shrine that traditionally requires the candidate to be a virgin.
He also urged critics to understand and appreciate the tenets of the Ga-Dangbe tradition before passing judgment.
“When somebody makes such a call it comes from a point of ignorance. Because first, you need to come closer and ask so that you will appreciate what it is but not take hook line, and sinker what is being said,” he said at a press conference.
“Because it goes beyond what is being preached out there. It is deeper than what is being preached. It is deeper for our spirituality.”
Elders of Nungua react to public outrage over customary marriage to 12-year-old girl. Speaking on behalf of the Gborbu Wulormor, the Mankralo of Nungua, Nii Bortey Kofi Frankwa II said persons calling for the intervention of the Gender Ministry are talking out of ignorance as the… pic.twitter.com/6qIZ6bCl44
— GHOne TV (@ghonetv) April 1, 2024
