The Delta State Government has shut down an alleged illegal orphanage, the Foster Paradise, in Ashaka, Ndokwa East Local Government Area of the state, while the 22 children found there were evacuated to a government approved orphanage. The children, made up of 11 males and 11 females, were taken to the Orem Orphanage in Ughelli, Ughelli North Local Government Area, and Ojone Orphanage in Ogwashi-Uku, Aniocha South Local Government Area of the state. In shutting down the Foster Paradise, the government insisted that the Child Rights Bill as domesticated must be adopted by orphanages across the state. Addressing the proprietress of the orphanage, Mrs Antonett, who was handed over to the police, the commissioner insisted that due process was not followed in accordance with the ministry’s guidelines. Alatan added that the owner of the orphanage was unable to provide any documents to account for the children in her custody.

Source: Punch April 19, 2021 02:15 UTC