Rivers State Government Summons OPM Founder Over Alleged Breach of Child Protection Laws

Apostle Chibuzor Chinyere was summoned by the Rivers State Govt over the alleged marriage of an autistic child and failure to register his orphanage.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 21, 2026, 8:34 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from The Guardian Nigeria

Government Intervention Following Public Outcry

The Rivers State Government has officially summoned Apostle Chibuzor Gift Chinyere, the General Overseer of Omega Power Ministries (OPM), to address allegations regarding the violation of child protection and welfare statutes. The summon was triggered by widespread public concern and social media reports involving an autistic child under the cleric's care. A closed-door meeting was convened by the Ministry of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation to evaluate the circumstances of the case and ensure that all childcare activities within the state adhere to the legal framework established for the protection of vulnerable minors.

Violations of the Child’s Rights and Disabilities Acts

During the proceedings, Lauretta Davies Dimpka, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, identified several critical breaches of extant laws. She specifically noted contraventions of the Child’s Rights Act of 2003, the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act, and the Persons with Disabilities Act. Dimpka emphasized that while the cleric’s motivations may have been charitable, the legal requirements for child welfare are mandatory and non-negotiable. She noted that actions involving the marriage of a minor or a person with disabilities must strictly follow statutory protections that were reportedly bypassed in this instance.

Admissions of Procedural Lapses and Lack of Awareness

In his response to the ministry, Apostle Chinyere acknowledged the procedural lapses, attributing them to a lack of awareness regarding specific municipal and federal regulations. He admitted that he was unaware of the requirement to formally register his orphanage and obtain ministry approval before providing housing for minors. Describing the government engagement as "enlightening," the OPM founder pledged to take immediate corrective actions and to seek professional guidance from the ministry before making future decisions that impact the welfare of children under his supervision.