By Praise Chinecherem
Three children allegedly taken away from their mother six years ago have been returned to her through the efforts of Anambra State Commissioner for Women and Social Welfare, Ify Obinabo.
The reunion followed petition by one Chizoba Nwafor, who claimed her husband, Ogochukwu David Nwafor, residing in South Africa, handed over the kids to his sister, Ukamaka Igwilo, who in turn gave them to a couple, Josephine Okoye and her husband, Chukwudimma.
Speaking to newsmen on Wednesday, Obinabo said the children were rescued from the school they were attending after preliminary investigations.
“After preliminary investigation, my team stormed the school and rescued the three kids.
“Even though the smallest among them could hardly recall who the mother is, the kids were glad to be reunited with their mother after the rescue,” she said.
The visibly angry commissioner condemned the act, warning would-be offenders to desist from such or face the consequences.
“The government of Prof. Chukwuma Soludo will not tolerate any sort of detrimental behavior perpetrated against women by other women while under his administration.
“Under no circumstances will the family be allowed to obtain custody of the children when the mother is still alive,” she added.
Responding, the petitioner, Chizoba Nwafor, appreciated the Commissioner, saying her children were taken from her six years despite all efforts to get them back.
“My last child was just two years old when they were taken from me and ever since then, my husband’s family has not only denied me access to see them, but forbade me from getting close to them,” she said.
Josephine Okoye, however refuted Chizoba’s claim, alleging that the kids had not set their eyes on their mother since her brother brought them to her (Josephine).
