The Rivers State Government has summoned the General Overseer of Omega Power Ministries (OPM), Apostle Chibuzor Gift Chinyere, over alleged breaches of child protection laws linked to reports that an autistic child under his care was given out in marriage.
The development follows public concern and scrutiny surrounding the incident. Authorities said the action was necessary to ensure compliance with existing laws safeguarding children and vulnerable persons.
The matter was addressed during a closed-door meeting convened by the Ministry of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation. Representatives of the International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA), Rivers State branch, led by Chairperson Tamunouemi Life-George, were also present.
Speaking after the meeting on April 21, the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Lauretta Davies Dimpka, said that while the cleric’s intentions may have been well-meaning, his actions violated established legal provisions guiding child welfare in the state.
She cited specific laws, including the Child’s Rights Act of 2003, the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act, and the Persons with Disabilities Act. According to her, these laws set clear standards that must be followed by individuals and organisations involved in childcare services.
Davies Dimpka noted that some of the cleric’s actions, particularly those shared publicly on social media, did not meet the required legal standards designed to protect minors and persons with disabilities.
She emphasized that adherence to these regulations is mandatory, regardless of intent, and warned that non-compliance could expose vulnerable individuals to harm.
Despite the concerns, the Permanent Secretary acknowledged the OPM founder’s cooperation. She commended him for responding to the ministry’s invitation and showing willingness to align his activities with statutory requirements.
According to her, the cleric was sensitised on proper procedures relating to childcare and pledged to seek guidance from the ministry in future decisions involving minors.
Davies Dimpka also used the opportunity to caution faith-based organisations and private operators managing orphanages or children’s homes. She stressed the need for proper registration and official approval from the ministry before accommodating children.
The government reiterated that regulatory oversight is critical to ensuring the safety, welfare, and rights of children, particularly those in vulnerable conditions.
In his response, Apostle Chinyere admitted to lapses in compliance, attributing them to a lack of awareness of the relevant legal requirements. He described the meeting as informative and said it had provided clarity on his responsibilities under the law.
He pledged to take immediate corrective steps to ensure that his activities conform with government regulations. The cleric also acknowledged that he had been unaware of the need to formally register his orphanage and obtain official approval before housing minors.
“This meeting opened my eyes. There were things I was doing that I didn’t know were wrong. Now that I know, I will do the right thing and ensure immediate compliance,” he said.
The Ministry of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation stated that the engagement forms part of broader efforts to enforce child protection laws across Rivers State. Officials said the initiative is aimed at strengthening safeguards for children and other vulnerable groups.
The case highlights ongoing concerns about oversight in privately run childcare facilities and underscores the government’s intention to ensure that all operators adhere strictly to legal and ethical standards.
