The Anambra Government has taken decisive action against a non-compliant orphanage in the state. On Saturday, the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Children Welfare, Mrs Esther Onyekesi, led an inspection team to the Arrow of God Children’s Home in Nwelle Ezunaka, Oyi Local Government Area. The facility, owned by retired Lt.-Col. Deborah Ogoo, was found to be operating below the required standards.
The inspection aimed to assess the operational standards and welfare conditions of children at the Arrow of God Children’s Home. Findings revealed that the facility’s unhygienic environment posed significant concerns for the welfare of the children. According to Onyekesi, the home fell short of the prescribed standards, prompting the government to take immediate action.
As a result of the inspection, the facility was sealed by the inspection team for failing to meet regulatory requirements. Onyekesi reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to protecting children and ensuring that residential care facilities provide safe, clean, and conducive environments. The government emphasized that no children’s home would be allowed to compromise the safety, dignity, and well-being of children under its care.
A total of eight children were rescued from the facility during the inspection. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reported that the children were taken to a safe location, although further details about their current situation and plans for their care have not been disclosed.
The Anambra Government’s action against the Arrow of God Children’s Home is part of a broader effort to ensure that all residential care facilities in the state meet the required standards. Onyekesi stressed that the government would continue to monitor and inspect facilities to prevent similar cases of neglect and poor service delivery.
The Commissioner for Women Affairs and Children Welfare emphasized that the government’s primary concern is the welfare and well-being of children in residential care. The state government has urged operators of children’s homes to prioritize the safety, dignity, and well-being of children in their care.
The sealing of the Arrow of God Children’s Home serves as a warning to other facilities that may be operating below standard. The Anambra Government has demonstrated its commitment to enforcing regulations and protecting vulnerable children in the state. Key facilities and operators are expected to take note of the government’s stance and take corrective action to avoid similar consequences.
Key points
- The Anambra Government sealed the Arrow of God Children’s Home in Nwelle Ezunaka due to poor service delivery and unhygienic conditions.
- Eight children were rescued from the facility during the inspection.
- The government reaffirmed its commitment to protecting children and ensuring safe, clean, and conducive environments in residential care facilities.
