Rivers State Government Nullifies Marriage Involving Autistic Man Over Consent and Exploitation Concerns.

Rivers State Government Nullifies Marriage Involving Autistic Man Over Consent and Exploitation Concerns.

On March 29, 2026, Apostle Chibuzor Chinyere of OPM facilitated the marriage of his adopted son, Aboy, who is autistic and non-verbal. The arrangement included significant incentives:
– N10 million cash
– A new house
– An overseas vacation
– A promised N20 million after 10 years

The Rivers State Ministry of Social Welfare intervened and declared the marriage null. The government cited three main reasons:

1. *Lack of Consent*: Aboy requires full-time care for basic needs like feeding and bathing. Authorities determined he is mentally incapable of consenting to a marriage contract.
2. *Exploitation Concerns*: The woman is reportedly significantly older than Aboy, leading officials to believe the union was financially motivated rather than genuine.
3. *Legal Violations*: Under the Persons with Disabilities Act 2025 and the Matrimonial Causes Act, a marriage is void if a party cannot understand its nature. Lawyers referenced Section 3(1)(d)(iii) of the Matrimonial Causes Act. There are also concerns under the VAPP Act 2015 that consummation could legally constitute rape of a person with a disability.

The state has administratively cancelled the marriage to protect Aboy. The wife maintains she married him based on “God’s direction,” not the financial incentives.

This case has sparked debate about religious claims versus legal and ethical standards. Critics argue that some individuals use spirituality to justify actions that harm vulnerable people, prioritizing personal interest over genuine protection. The incident raises questions about accountability when religious authority intersects with the rights of people with disabilities.