Arrow of God Community Children’s Home in Onitsha, Anambra State, has been sealed off by the Ministry of Women and Social Welfare, led by Commissioner Honourable Ify Obinabo.
The decision to seal off the orphanage follows the circulation of an investigative report on social media and local television stations, alleging the involvement of the state ministry in illegal adoption activities and the operation of an unregistered home.
In response to these allegations, Honourable Obinabo first invited the founder of the home, Reverend D.C Ogo, to her office in the state capital of Awka. However, Rev. Ogo did not honor the invitation.
As a result, the Commissioner, in collaboration with security operatives, carried out a raid on the orphanage home located at 33 Nkwelle in Onitsha and officially sealed the premises.
In a press briefing after the sealing of the home, Honourable Obinabo clarified that the ministry had no knowledge of any adoption process involving the Arrow of God Orphanage. She explained that the adoption process must go through the ministry, which was not the case with this particular home.
She cited several irregularities in the adoption process, including the absence of the three required signatories: herself, the Head of Child Services, and the Permanent Secretary of the ministry.
Honourable Obinabo emphasized that since assuming office, all applications for court orders related to adoption or care have been directed to the designated Children, Sexual and Gender-Based Violence Magistrate Court in Awka, rather than the Nnewi court order presented in the documentary. This change was implemented to prioritize the best interests of the child.
Furthermore, the Women and Social Welfare Commissioner gave a stern warning to other children’s home operators engaged in illegal adoption, urging them to cease their activities or face the consequences. She emphasized that the state government is committed to cracking down on operators who do not adhere to the standardized operational practices and processes in place.
She also cautioned prospective adoptive parents to be vigilant, as some individuals posing as ministry consultants are aiding in facilitating illegal adoptions. Honourable Obinabo stated categorically that the state ministry has not engaged the services of any consultants.
During the raid at Arrow of God Community Children’s Home, 20 children, including a newborn, were recovered by the authorities. However, the founder and her staff are currently at large.
The children, ranging in age from 1 to 17 years, consist of 10 boys, 9 girls, and the newborn. They are currently under the care of the state government, which is taking necessary measures to locate and reunite them with their respective families.
