Ever since we were relocated to Port Harcourt, our lives have become unbearable," says the family of the late Deborah, as they publicly criticize the OPM Pastor.
The tragic story of Deborah, a talented college student who met a devastating end, has gained significant attention. Deborah was brutally attacked and killed by her fellow students at Shehu Shagari College of Education in Sokoto State on May 12, 2022. Amidst the grief, Chibuzor Chinyere, the head of Omega Power Ministries (OPM) in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, reached out to help Deborah's grieving family.
Initially, it appeared that the family's situation was improving. Reports indicated that Chinyere provided them with a house, a car, and improved their living conditions. However, a recent update from the family reveals a different reality, shedding light on their ongoing struggles since their relocation to Port Harcourt. Emmanuel and Alheri, Deborah's family members, recently shared their harsh experiences in an interview with FIJ. Contrary to the perception of an improved life, they expressed that their circumstances had not been as positive as initially believed.
The family was uprooted from Niger State to Port Harcourt by OPM, with the promise of a better life. Upon their arrival, OPM arranged a small estate consisting of 14 self-contained apartments for the family. However, due to their large size, the pastor decided to rent a separate one-bedroom flat for them. The apartment was furnished with appliances, seemingly providing some comfort in their new surroundings. As part of the initial support, OPM also gave Emmanuel a used Toyota Corolla, which he used as a taxi to make a living. Unfortunately, the car started experiencing multiple issues, forcing Emmanuel to stop using it. Despite his attempts to address the problem with the OPM pastor, he was met with blame and criticism, suggesting that he lacked proper driving skills.
The situation worsened when the family faced financial difficulties. After the initial assistance from OPM ceased, they struggled to sustain themselves. Emmanuel shared his desperation, revealing that he had depleted the funds intended for their livelihood in an effort to repair the faulty car. The engine remained broken, leaving them unable to afford the necessary repairs. To compound their problems, the family disclosed that their rent for the current apartment had expired, and the landlord demanded renewal or eviction.
The house and all the appliances within it were reportedly owned by OPM, highlighting the family's dependence on the organization. Despite the initial support received, the family now finds themselves trapped in a challenging situation, desperately seeking help and relief. Their pleas for assistance resonate through their online appeals, revealing the harsh realities they face on a daily basis. As the story unfolds, Deborah's family's fate hangs in the balance, as they navigate their difficult circumstances following their devastating loss. The hope they once had has faded, leaving them in urgent need of support and stability. The challenges they currently encounter serve as a reminder of the complexities involved in acts of charity and the responsibility to ensure long-term well-being for those in need.
