Reported by: Oahimire Omone Precious | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
The founder of Omega Power Ministries, Apostle Chibuzor Gift Chinyere, has provided further clarification following widespread controversy surrounding the marriage of a man described as autistic and under his care to a woman introduced through his church. The development, which has generated intense public debate across Nigeria and beyond, stems from a sequence of events that unfolded rapidly within days, raising questions about consent, ethics, and the welfare of vulnerable individuals.
The situation began when the cleric made a public appeal seeking a wife for the young man, identified as Aboy Chibuzor, who is non-verbal and requires constant assistance with daily activities. According to the pastor, the man had been abandoned as a child and left at the church premises, where he has since been raised and supported through the ministry’s humanitarian programmes. He explained that the individual requires full-time care, including feeding, bathing, and supervision, and had previously faced challenges with caregivers who were unable to manage his needs effectively.
The initial appeal, which included promises of financial incentives such as accommodation and welfare support for any woman willing to marry the man, quickly triggered backlash on social media. Many critics described the proposal as inappropriate and potentially exploitative, arguing that it reduced marriage to a transactional arrangement and raised concerns about the dignity of women and the autonomy of the man involved.
In response to the criticism, Apostle Chinyere issued a public apology, stating that he did not intend to degrade women or commodify marriage. He maintained that his actions were motivated by concern for the young man’s long-term welfare and the need to provide him with stable companionship and care. He also emphasised that the post was intended to attract someone willing to take on the responsibility voluntarily, not to pressure or coerce anyone.
Despite the backlash, events progressed swiftly. Within days of the viral appeal, the pastor announced that a woman had agreed to marry the man, and the wedding was held on March 29, 2026, at the church. The bride was described as a single woman of faith, and the ceremony was attended by members of the ministry.
As part of the arrangement, the cleric disclosed that the couple would receive significant financial and material support, including a cash gift reportedly amounting to ₦10 million, a house, and an overseas trip. He also mentioned a long-term financial commitment tied to the man’s wellbeing, alongside additional donations from church members.
Following renewed public scrutiny after the wedding, Apostle Chinyere clarified that the bride entered the marriage willingly and was fully informed of the groom’s condition prior to the union. He insisted that there was no coercion involved and that the woman understood the responsibilities associated with caring for a partner with special needs. According to him, the arrangement was designed primarily to ensure the man’s safety, companionship, and structured care in a family setting.
The pastor further defended the initiative as part of the broader humanitarian mission of the church, which has historically taken in abandoned children and individuals with disabilities. He noted that hundreds of such individuals have been supported by the ministry over the years, many of whom lack family structures or social support systems. His intervention in this case, he argued, was consistent with efforts to provide long-term solutions for individuals who might otherwise remain dependent on institutional care.
However, the controversy has continued to generate debate among members of the public, advocacy groups, and professionals. A key concern raised is the issue of informed consent, particularly given that the groom is non-verbal and reportedly unable to perform basic tasks independently. Experts in developmental disorders note that autism exists on a spectrum and that individuals may have varying levels of cognitive capacity, making it essential to assess their ability to understand and consent to major life decisions such as marriage.
Another dimension of the debate focuses on the ethical implications of linking financial incentives to marital arrangements. Critics argue that such incentives could influence decision-making and raise questions about whether the relationship is based on mutual understanding or economic necessity. Supporters, on the other hand, contend that providing financial stability may be necessary to ensure adequate care for individuals with significant needs.
The case has also highlighted broader societal attitudes toward disability in Nigeria. Individuals with developmental conditions often face stigma, exclusion, and limited access to resources, leaving many dependent on charitable organisations or religious institutions. In this context, some observers view the marriage as an attempt to promote inclusion and provide a sense of belonging for someone who might otherwise remain isolated.
At the same time, human rights advocates have called for greater oversight and safeguards in situations involving vulnerable individuals. They stress the importance of involving medical professionals, legal experts, and social welfare agencies in decisions that carry long-term implications for individuals who may not be able to advocate fully for themselves.
As discussions continue, the incident has sparked a wider national conversation about the intersection of charity, personal autonomy, and cultural expectations. While no formal investigation has been announced, the case is likely to influence future discourse on how religious and charitable organisations engage in social interventions involving vulnerable populations.
For now, Apostle Chinyere maintains that the marriage was conducted in good faith and with the intention of improving the life of the man under his care. Whether the arrangement will stand the test of time remains to be seen, but it has undeniably opened up critical conversations about ethics, responsibility, and the protection of rights in contemporary Nigerian society.
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