OPM Church Leader Apostle Chibuzor Details Care Needs of Adopted Autistic Son
In a revealing video interview with media influencer Lucky Udu, Apostle Chibuzor Gift Chinyere, the General Overseer of Omega Power Ministry (OPM Church), has openly discussed the specific challenges faced by his adopted son, Aboy Chibuzor. The religious leader explained that due to Aboy's autism spectrum condition, the young man requires comprehensive assistance with basic daily activities that most people perform independently.
The Story of Aboy's Adoption and Current Situation
Apostle Chibuzor recounted the circumstances that led to Aboy becoming part of his family. According to the church leader, Aboy was abandoned as a child at the gate of his residence by an unidentified stranger who has never come forward to claim the boy. The pastor emphasized that he has no knowledge of Aboy's tribal background or biological family members, but chose to adopt him rather than abandon him to uncertain circumstances.
"I decided to keep him as my child since I couldn't throw him away," Apostle Chibuzor stated in the viral video. "Because of his condition, I have tried to hire a caregiver for him to ensure he receives proper support and attention."
Four Essential Activities Requiring Assistance
The OPM leader specifically identified four fundamental daily tasks that Aboy cannot perform without help:
- Oral Hygiene: "He cannot brush his own teeth; somebody has to brush his teeth."
- Toilet Use: "He cannot go to the toilet; somebody has to take him to the toilet."
- Personal Bathing: "He cannot take his bath; somebody has to bathe him for him."
- Eating: "He cannot eat; somebody has to feed him. Somebody has to do basically everything for him."
Apostle Chibuzor further elaborated on Aboy's communication challenges, noting: "If you talk to him, he doesn't understand what you're saying. He cannot speak so now. I decided to hire a caregiver to take care of him."
Public Reactions and Broader Context
The disclosure has generated significant discussion on social media platforms, with many commenters expressing diverse opinions about Aboy's care and recent marriage. Some social media users have questioned the appropriateness of arranging a marriage for someone with such significant support needs, while others have defended the pastor's decisions regarding his adopted son's welfare.
In related developments, a Nigerian lawyer has raised legal questions about Aboy's recent marriage to a woman described as "a woman of God." The legal professional argued that the union may not be legally valid for two primary reasons: first, because church ceremonies alone don't constitute legal marriage without proper registration, and second, because individuals who cannot fully comprehend the implications of marriage may lack legal capacity to enter such contracts.
The conversation around Aboy's situation continues to highlight broader issues regarding autism awareness, caregiver support systems, and the ethical considerations surrounding marriage arrangements for individuals with significant cognitive disabilities in Nigerian society.
