Reported by: Oahimire Omone Precious | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
The Founder of Omega Power Ministries (OPM), Apostle Chibuzor Gift Chinyere, has generated widespread discussion following a public statement in which he said he is seeking a husband for his adopted daughter, a 21-year-old woman living with autism, and outlined specific conditions and benefits associated with the arrangement.
In the statement attributed to the cleric, he described the young woman, identified as Chiemeka Chibuzor, as his adopted daughter and said that any prospective husband must be a young man who is physically strong, mentally fit, and capable of providing adequate care and responsibility in managing her wellbeing.
He further stated that the arrangement is intended to ensure her protection and long-term support, emphasizing that the chosen partner must be able to care for her consistently given her condition. The statement also included assurances that oversight would be maintained through periodic checks by staff of his organization to ensure her safety and welfare.
The cleric also reportedly promised material benefits to any man who agrees to the arrangement, including financial support and housing provisions. He stated that a house would be provided for the couple and would be registered in both their names, alongside additional support meant to guarantee stability for the household.
The remarks have sparked significant public reaction, with many expressing concern over the framing of marriage in relation to a person living with autism, as well as the ethical implications of linking caregiving responsibilities with financial incentives. Others have interpreted the statement as an attempt to secure long-term care support for a vulnerable individual under his guardianship, though opinions remain sharply divided.
Disability rights advocates and social commentators have in similar past discussions warned that arrangements involving persons with developmental or neurodivergent conditions require careful consideration of autonomy, consent, dignity, and protection from potential exploitation. In such cases, experts often emphasize the importance of structured care systems rather than informal or publicly negotiated personal arrangements.
The identity and autonomy of adults living with autism are also central to ongoing global conversations about inclusion and rights-based approaches to disability support. While individuals on the autism spectrum can lead independent lives depending on severity and support needs, public discourse around guardianship and decision-making must balance care responsibilities with respect for personal agency.
As of the time of reporting, there has been no formal response from regulatory authorities or disability-focused organisations regarding the statement. However, the issue has continued to circulate widely on social platforms, where users are divided between support for the cleric’s intentions and criticism of the manner in which the arrangement was presented.
Apostle Chibuzor, known for his philanthropic work through the Omega Power Ministries foundation, has in the past been involved in social welfare initiatives including scholarships, housing support, and assistance for vulnerable individuals. His supporters often cite these efforts as evidence of a long-standing commitment to humanitarian outreach.
Nevertheless, the latest statement has drawn renewed scrutiny due to its sensitive subject matter and the intersection of disability, guardianship, and marriage arrangements. Observers note that such issues require careful communication, particularly when they involve individuals who may require additional support in decision-making processes.
At present, it remains unclear whether any formal process has been initiated regarding the proposed arrangement or whether it remains a public expression of intent. The situation continues to generate debate, with calls for clearer guidance on ethical standards in cases involving vulnerable adults and personal care arrangements.
As discussions continue, attention is expected to focus on how religious, social, and welfare institutions engage with issues involving disability care, autonomy, and long-term support systems in Nigeria’s broader social context.
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