The heartbreaking video of a young boy who was chained by his stepmother at World Bank area in Owerri, went viral on social media on the 17th of June, 2022. Thankfully, the video was brought to my attention and I quickly contacted the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Vulnerable Groups, Imo State.

Within the next hour, we swung into action and involved the Imo State Police in New Owerri, and a few community heads to locate the children. Later that evening, the children were rescued and the perpetrators; their father and stepmother were placed in custody.

We are grateful to report that the children have been secured in one of the state homes. Until justice is served, they will continue to recuperate and receive all they need; food, clothing, shelter and counselling to get them back on track.

To the good Samaritan, Ogonna Obasi, who went out of her way to alert the public, people on social media who took the time to share until it got the attention of appropriate authorities, the Imo Police Department for taking swift action, Pearl Gods light of Godslight Helping Hand Ministry Inc. and the Commissioner of Women Affairs and Vulnerable Groups @hon_nkechinyereugwu, who made sure the children were secured and placed in a safe environment, thank you!

H.E. Chief Barr. (Mrs.) Chioma Uzodimma
First Lady, Imo State and Founder, GoodHope Flourish Foundation.