Rivers Govt Probes OPM Pastor Over Alleged Breach of Child Rights in Marriage Plan

The Rivers State Government has ordered all orphanage operators and childcare providers to formalise their operations and comply strictly with legal frameworks safeguarding children’s rights across the state.

The directive was delivered by Lauretta Dimpka, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation, during a stakeholders’ engagement held in Port Harcourt, PulseNets reported.

The government’s action comes amid widespread public backlash over a controversial plan by Chibuzor Chinyere of Omega Power Ministries to facilitate a marriage arrangement for his 21-year-old autistic adopted daughter, reportedly accompanied by incentives for prospective suitors.

PulseNets learnt that authorities moved swiftly after the issue gained traction online, with Dimpka stressing that while the intention behind the act may not have been malicious, it contravened established legal provisions.

“As a faith-based organisation, the interventions appeared well-meaning but fell short of compliance with the law,” she said.

She referenced critical legal instruments including the Child’s Rights Act, the Persons with Disabilities Act, and the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act as central to protecting vulnerable groups.

“These laws mandate strict safeguards for minors and persons with special needs,” she added.

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Dimpka further urged full regulatory compliance, stating, “All orphanages and children’s homes operating in the state must be duly registered to ensure adherence to child protection protocols.”

In his response, Chinyere acknowledged shortcomings in his approach, telling stakeholders, “This meeting is an eye-opener. I have been doing things without knowing that they were wrong. Now I understand better.”