Anambra govt seals orphanage, gives reason

The Anambra State Government has sealed an orphanage in Nwelle Ezunaka, Oyi Local Government Area, over poor service delivery and unhygienic conditions.

The Commissioner for Women’s Affairs and Children’s Welfare, Esther Onyekesi, disclosed this on Saturday during an inspection of the facility.

The inspection aimed to assess operational standards and children’s welfare at the Arrow of God Children’s Home.

Mrs Onyekesi said the facility fell below prescribed standards, while its unhygienic environment raised concerns about the children’s welfare.

“The Arrow of God Children’s Home, Nwelle Ezunaka, Oyi Local Government Area, is operating below the required standards, with an unhygienic environment posing concerns for the welfare of the children,” she said.

She added that the inspection team sealed the facility, owned by retired Lieutenant Colonel Deborah Ogoo, for failing to meet regulatory requirements.

“This home is hereby sealed by the inspection team over its failure to meet the prescribed standards,” she said.

Mrs Onyekesi reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to protecting children and ensuring residential care facilities provide safe, clean and conducive environments.

She stressed that no children’s home would be allowed to compromise the safety, dignity and well-being of children under its care.

The News Agency of Nigeria reports that eight children were rescued from the facility.