A Nigerian pastor and founder of Omega Power Ministries, Apostle Chibuzor Gift Chinyere, has apologised following public backlash over a viral video in which he sought a wife for an autistic man under his care.
The post, shared on Chinyere’s Facebook page on Friday, sparked widespread criticism, with many viewers saying the proposal was inappropriate and demeaning to women.
The proposal offered financial incentives, including accommodation, salary, and other benefits, to any woman willing to marry the man.
In response, the cleric issued a direct apology on Saturday, saying: “I want to apologise to all the ladies who watched the video. I can never degrade any woman… if my comments were seen as degrading, I apologise openly. I am very, very sorry.”
Chinyere explained that the post was motivated by his concern for the young man, who was abandoned as a child and has special needs.
He said the man, whose family background is unknown, requires full-time care, including feeding, bathing, and other daily assistance.
The pastor said the young man was previously taken to a motherly home by the police, but was rejected due to his condition, leaving Chinyere to provide ongoing support.
“I have more than 500 children who have been left at my gate over the years. Some have disabilities, including autism. I cannot abandon them, and this young man is no exception.” ,” he said.
According to Chinyere, caregivers previously employed to assist the man were unable to manage him, leading him to consider alternatives.
“I was trying to find a sustainable solution to ensure he is cared for properly, The idea of seeking a partner was intended to provide companionship and support, not to degrade women. I never intended it to be interpreted that way,” ,” he said.
Chinyere stressed that the young man’s condition is complex. “He cannot perform basic tasks on his own. He cannot brush his teeth, bathe, or feed himself. He does not speak and does not understand instructions. I am always concerned about his safety and wellbeing,” he said.
The pastor also highlighted the facilities and support he provides through his ministry, including free schools, hospitals, and housing for children with special needs.
“This young man, like the others, has access to education, medical care, and a caregiver. The intention was always to help him have a better life,” he said.
Chinyere acknowledged that the public post may have been misinterpreted, but said it was meant to identify someone willing to live with and support the man long-term. “Making it public was the best way for people to understand the situation and offer help,” he said.
The pastor added that while some people have shown interest in assisting, any solution must ensure the man’s safety and wellbeing. “I am trying to find a companion or caregiver who will accommodate him fully, but it must be done responsibly,” he said.
He concluded by reiterating his apology, emphasising that the intention behind his post was to help a vulnerable individual and not to offend women: “I am truly sorry if my posts offended anyone. My goal is always to care for those who cannot care for themselves.”
(Punch)
