OPM Pastor Addresses Age and Marriage of Autistic Adopted Son Aboy
The General Overseer of Omega Power Ministries (OPM), Apostle Chibuzor Gift Chinyere, has publicly addressed ongoing speculations regarding the age of his adopted autistic son, Aboy Elijah Chibuzor. In a recent interview with BBC, the cleric provided detailed insights into Aboy's background, upbringing, and the circumstances that led to his recent marriage.
Clarifying Aboy's Age and Background
Apostle Chibuzor explained that Aboy was abandoned at the church gate as a child without any identification or family records, making his exact age unknown. Based on his physical growth and behavioural development, the pastor asserted that Aboy had reached adulthood and could no longer be considered a child. He emphasised that this assessment was crucial in understanding the decisions made regarding Aboy's care and future.
The pastor recounted that Aboy, who lives with autism and does not speak, relies heavily on gestures to understand instructions due to hearing difficulties. He attended school initially but was withdrawn after repeated incidents involving inappropriate behaviour towards female students, which became increasingly challenging to manage.
Behavioural Challenges and Marital Solution
As Aboy matured physically, he developed an unusually strong drive, leading to frequent public exposure of himself even in sensitive places. This behaviour caused serious concern within the church community, prompting intensive prayers, medical attention, and various intervention attempts. When these measures proved insufficient, a decision was reached to seek a marital solution as a way to address the situation.
Apostle Chibuzor organised a public appeal within the church, offering long-term financial support and housing assistance to anyone willing to marry Aboy. A widowed female minister with three children volunteered and agreed to the union. Following the marriage, the pastor observed significant behavioural improvements, noting that Aboy began feeding himself independently—a task he had previously struggled with.
Reactions from the Public
Nigerians have reacted to the pastor's statements with a mix of support and admiration. Comments on social media praised Apostle Chibuzor for his compassion and dedication. For instance, Chinedu described him as "a man with a heart of gold," while Patrick expressed blessings for his work. Others, like Eze Ayaya, called for more recognition of his efforts through documentaries.
However, the situation has also drawn attention from legal perspectives. Previously, a lawyer cautioned the pastor about the legal implications of marrying off autistic children, highlighting the need for careful consideration in such matters.
Background on Aboy's Upbringing
Apostle Chibuzor shared that after being found, Aboy was initially taken to an orphanage, but the facility declined to keep him due to the complexity of his condition. The police then returned him to the church, where he was raised. Caregivers were employed to assist with his daily needs, as he required constant supervision.
The pastor concluded that the marriage has reduced the intense urges that once caused concern, leaving Aboy calmer and more settled. This outcome, he believes, validates the decision made in the best interest of Aboy's well-being and integration into society.
