‘God told me to marry him,’ woman defends wedding to autistic man

A woman who married a young autistic man at Omega Power Ministries (OPM) has defended her decision, insisting that the union was a direct instruction from God.

The wedding, officiated by Apostle Chibuzor Chinyere on Sunday, followed days of outrage after the cleric announced plans to find a wife for the non-verbal man, identified as Aboy Chibuzor.

The development had drawn widespread criticism, with many questioning the propriety of the arrangement and describing it as inappropriate.

However, speaking after the ceremony, the bride said she initially ignored the announcement when it was made public.

“When the announcement was made last week, I didn’t pay attention at first. I was like, ‘What is this?’ Not knowing God had a purpose for me,” she said.

According to her, everything changed days later.

“About three days ago, God told me to go and fulfil what He sent me to do,” she added.

The woman revealed that she had previously turned down several marriage proposals, insisting she had made a vow to God concerning her body and future husband.

“Many people had asked me for marriage, but I told Jesus my body is for Him. No man would deflower me until He gives me my own husband. It is a vow I made,” she said.

Maintaining that her decision was divinely guided, she said she is prepared to take on the responsibility that comes with the marriage.

“God is the one that directed me to marry him. I will marry him and take care of him as both my son and my husband,” she stated.

Aboy Chibuzor, according to the church, was abandoned as a child at the gate of the ministry and has since been raised under its care. The pastor said the young man is non-verbal and requires assistance with feeding, bathing and other daily activities.

Despite the backlash that trailed the initial announcement, Apostle Chibuzor Chinyere proceeded with the wedding and announced financial support for the couple, including ₦10 million, a house and an overseas vacation.

He also pledged an additional ₦20 million after 10 years if the groom remains alive, while members of the church made further donations.

In a post after the ceremony, the cleric claimed there were already signs of improvement in the groom’s condition, expressing hope that he would begin to speak within months.

The marriage has continued to generate intense debate online, with reactions ranging from support to outright criticism.