PORT HARCOURT, Nigeria — The Rivers State Government has summoned Chibuzor Gift Chinyere, the General Overseer of Omega Power Ministries (OPM), over alleged violations of child protection laws following reports that an autistic child under his care was given out in marriage.
The action followed public concern over the incident and was addressed during a closed-door meeting convened by the Ministry of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation on Tuesday, April 21, 2026.
Representatives of the International Federation of Women Lawyers, Rivers State branch, attended the meeting.
Government Cites Legal Breaches
In a statement issued after the meeting, the Permanent Secretary in the ministry, Lauretta Davies Dimpka, said that while the cleric’s actions may have been motivated by goodwill, they contravened existing legal provisions governing child welfare in the state.
She cited breaches of the Child’s Rights Act of 2003, the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act, and the Persons with Disabilities Act, noting that compliance with these laws is mandatory for individuals and organisations involved in childcare.
“While the cleric acted in good faith, some of his actions—particularly those circulated on social media—fall short of the legal requirements and protections guaranteed for children and persons with disabilities,” Davies Dimpka said.
She added that the ministry had used the engagement to sensitise the cleric on appropriate procedures and regulatory expectations.
Cleric Pledges Compliance
According to the ministry, Chinyere acknowledged lapses in compliance and attributed them to a lack of awareness of legal requirements.
“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.
He also stated that he had been unaware of the need to formally register his orphanage and obtain official approval before accommodating minors.
Davies Dimpka commended the cleric for responding to the invitation and expressing willingness to align with statutory regulations.
The ministry said the intervention forms part of wider efforts to enforce child protection laws and safeguard vulnerable groups across the state.
Officials also cautioned faith-based organisations and private operators running orphanages or children’s homes to ensure full compliance with government regulations, including mandatory registration and oversight by the ministry.
