TheCable

The Anambra ministry of women and social welfare has closed down an orphanage, Arrow of God Community Children’s Home, over the “allegation of selling babies”.

In a statement on Wednesday, Ify Obinabo, the commissioner for women and social welfare in Anambra, said the orphanage was sealed in collaboration with security operatives in the state.

Obinabo said the action followed a report published on FIJ by ‘Fisayo Soyombo, alleging that the ministry was involved in the unlawful adoption of babies in an orphanage home in the state.

The commissioner who disassociated herself from the claim, said the ministry had earlier invited Deborah Ogo, founder of the home, who refused to show up.

“The Anambra state women and social welfare commissioner warned other children’s home operators involved in illegal adoption to desist forthwith or face the consequences,” the statement reads.

“The state government is all out to clamp down on operators who don’t follow the stipulated standardised operational practices and processes in the state.”

The commissioner warned those intending to adopt babies to be careful as unsuspecting persons now parade themselves as the ministry’s consultants who help in facilitating adoption.

She added that the ministry of women and social welfare has not engaged the services of any consultant, noting that the founder of the sealed orphanage would be made to face the law.

“While at the Arrow of God Community Children’s Home, 20 children were recovered from the operator, including a newborn while the founder and her staff are currently at large,” she said.

“The children are between the ages of one year to 17 years and they are 10 boys, nine girls and a newborn.”

The commissioner added that the children have been placed under the care of the government while efforts are being made to locate their families.