The Rivers State Government has directed orphanage operators and childcare providers to register and comply with laws protecting children’s rights across the state.
The directive was issued by Lauretta Dimpka, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation, during a stakeholders’ meeting in Port Harcourt.
The move follows public outrage over plans by Chibuzor Chinyere of Omega Power Ministries to arrange a marriage for his 21-year-old autistic adopted daughter, with incentives offered to suitors.
Dimpka said the government intervened after the issue went viral, noting that although the intention may have been good, it violated existing laws.
“As a faith-based organisation, the interventions appeared well-meaning but fell short of compliance with the law,” she said.
She cited the Child’s Rights Act, Persons with Disabilities Act, and Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act as key protections.
“These laws mandate strict safeguards for minors and persons with special needs,” she added.
She urged compliance, stating, “All orphanages and children’s homes operating in the state must be duly registered to ensure adherence to child protection protocols.”
Responding, Chinyere admitted lapses and said, “This meeting is an eye-opener. I have been doing things without knowing that they were wrong. Now I understand better.”