PORTHARCOURT: A woman who recently married a non-verbal autistic man has defended her decision, insisting that the union was divinely inspired and carried out according to God’s instruction.
The controversial wedding took place at Omega Power Ministries and was officiated by the church’s founder, Apostle Chibuzor Chinyere, after days of heated public debate over the arrangement.
The groom, identified as Aboy Chibuzor, is reportedly autistic and unable to speak. The marriage came after the cleric publicly announced plans to find a wife for the young man, a move that immediately triggered widespread criticism across social media.
Despite the backlash, the bride maintained that her decision to marry the man was based on a divine calling.
Speaking after the ceremony, she revealed that she initially ignored the pastor’s public announcement about finding a wife for the man.
According to her, she did not believe the message concerned her at first.
When the announcement was made last week, I didn’t really pay attention. I was wondering what it was all about, she said.
However, she claimed that a few days later she received what she described as a spiritual instruction.
About three days ago, God told me to go and fulfil what He sent me to do, she stated.
The woman also explained that she had previously rejected several marriage proposals because of a vow she made to God regarding her body and future husband.
She said she had promised to remain committed to her faith until God revealed the person she was meant to marry.
Many people had asked me to marry them, but I told Jesus that my body belongs to Him. No man would deflower me until He gives me the husband He has chosen for me,” she said.
According to her, she believes the marriage is part of a divine plan.
The bride further stated that she understands the responsibility involved in marrying someone with special needs and is prepared to care for him fully.
God is the one who directed me to marry him, she said.
I will marry him and take care of him as both my son and my husband.
Her remarks have generated mixed reactions online, with some people praising her compassion while others continue to question the circumstances surrounding the marriage.
According to the church, the groom, Aboy Chibuzor, was abandoned as a child at the gate of Omega Power Ministries and has since been raised within the church community.
Church leaders explained that he is non-verbal and requires assistance with daily activities such as feeding, bathing and other personal care.
Despite the controversy, Apostle Chibuzor Chinyere proceeded with the wedding ceremony and announced a significant financial support package for the couple.
The cleric reportedly provided:
- ₦10 million cash support
- A house for the couple
- An overseas vacation
He also pledged an additional ₦20 million after 10 years if the groom remains alive.
Members of the church also contributed additional financial donations during the ceremony.
Following the wedding, the cleric said there were already signs of improvement in the groom’s condition.
He expressed optimism that the young man might begin to speak within a few months.
However, the situation has continued to generate intense public debate, with reactions ranging from admiration and sympathy to criticism and concern over the ethical implications of the marriage.
Across social media platforms, Nigerians remain sharply divided over the unusual union, making it one of the most talked-about religious and social issues of the moment
