Two Reverend Sisters Remanded for Illegal Child Adoption in Anambra State
The Children, Sexual, and Gender-Based Violence Court in Awka, Anambra State, has remanded two reverend sisters from a prominent church for illegal dealings and fraudulent adoption of children. The accused are Reverend Sister Angela Onyenachi Ibe, 42, and Mother-General, Reverend Sister Chiemelie Jacinta Yvonne, 41.
The defendants faced a four-count charge of conspiracy and obtaining by pretence, offenses punishable under sections 495(a) and 386 of the Criminal Code, Cap 36, Volume II, the Revised Laws of Anambra State of Nigeria, 1991. They were also charged with illegal dealings with children and fraudulent adoption, offenses punishable under Section 30(2)(b) of the Child’s Rights Law of Anambra State, 2004.
Upon the charges being read, the defendants pleaded not guilty. Both stated they are from Imo State and work at the Sam Damian Community Children’s and Old People’s Home in Obosi, Anambra State.
The defense counsel requested bail for the defendants, arguing that as reverend sisters, they would faithfully attend their trials. However, Presiding Chief Magistrate Genevieve C. Osakwe found the bail application grounds weak and legally insufficient. She expressed concern over "the rising cases of illegal adoption and dealings on children, in Anambra State," urging security agencies to "extend their search, arrest and prosecution of all persons involved in the management of illegal community children’s and old people’s homes, across the state."
The court adjourned the case to May 29 and June 26, 2024, for further hearing and ordered the defendants to be remanded at the State Criminal Investigation Department, Awka
