A Nigerian cleric, Chibuzor Chinyere, has officiated the marriage of a young autistic man, Aboy Chibuzor, to an older single woman following widespread public criticism over an earlier proposal.
The wedding ceremony took place on Sunday at the Omega Power Ministries church, days after a viral video showed the pastor seeking a wife for the man, a move that drew backlash from Nigerians who described it as inappropriate.
According to the cleric, the groom, who is non-verbal and requires assistance with daily activities, was abandoned as a child and has been under his care for years. He explained that the marriage was arranged to provide companionship and long-term support for him.
Despite the controversy, the ceremony went ahead, with the pastor announcing financial support for the couple, including ₦10 million, a house, and an overseas trip. He also pledged an additional ₦20 million after 10 years if the groom remains alive.
The initial proposal had sparked criticism on social media, prompting the pastor to apologise, stating that he had no intention of disrespecting women.
Sharing updates after the wedding, he expressed optimism about the union and claimed the groom had begun showing signs of improvement, including feeding himself without assistance.
