The office of the Nungua Gborbu Wolormo has refuted claims regarding the age of Naa Ayemoade, stating that she is 16 years old, not 12. Furthermore, they emphasized that the relationship between Gborbu Wolormo and Naa Ayemoade is customary and not a marriage, addressing concerns raised by the public following a ceremony involving the 63-year-old Gborbu Wolormo and the young girl, Naa Okromo.
Nii Bortey Kofi Frankwa II, the spokesperson for the Gborbu Wolormo, clarified during a press conference that while the ceremony may have involved an underage individual, it does not entail the assumption of marital responsibilities or the initiation of a sexual relationship.
The controversial event, which took place on March 30, 2024, drew widespread criticism and calls for the arrest of Gborbu Wolormo, including from African Education Watch. The organization highlighted the illegality of marrying a 12-year-old girl and urged law enforcement to take action.
In response to the outcry, the Ghana Police Service has confirmed that the 12-year-old girl and her mother are under police protection. They assured that the girl would receive necessary support while the matter is under investigation, collaborating with relevant government agencies to ensure her welfare.
The traditional marriage ceremony has sparked public outrage, prompting scrutiny of traditional leaders and calls for legal intervention to safeguard the rights of minors.