LASG shuts His Grace Children Home and Orphanage for Illegal Operation

By: Manoah Kikekon

In a decisive move aimed at upholding the welfare and well-being of vulnerable children in Lagos State, the Ministry of Youth and Social Development, under the able leadership of Honourable Commissioner Mr. Mobolaji Ogunlende, has taken swift action by closing down the unregistered and unlawfully operated orphanage, "His Grace Children Home and Hostel Orphanage," situated in Isolo.

 

The closure was prompted by a viral video revealing the dire conditions and illegal operations within the institution. Honourable Ogunlende emphasised, "No illegal orphanage will be allowed to operate in Lagos State. The State Government will not stand idly by and watch the contravention of the laid-down rules and regulations designed to establish an acceptable standard."

 

Pharm (Mrs) Toyin Oke-Osanyintolu, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, expressed deep concern about the rampant illicit activities among orphanage operators in the state. She underscored the ministry's commitment to enforcement:

"Repeatedly, we have held stakeholder meetings with registered home operators to ensure alignment with acceptable practices. It is unfortunate that an incident like this can still occur. Those choosing illegality must desist immediately because we will pursue them with the law. Every home operator in the state must adhere to the rules."

At the time of closure, His Grace Children Home and Hostel Orphanage housed seven wards, four adults aged 18 to 25 years, and three children aged 13 to 16 years. The orphanage had never been registered with the state government, raising serious concerns about the safety of the children.

 

This swift action by the Lagos State Ministry of Youth and Social Development underscores the government's commitment to safeguarding children's rights and welfare. Honourable Ogunlende's dedication to youth and social development is evident in this resolute stance against illegal orphanages, reinforcing the Ministry's mission to protect the well-being of the state's youth, in line with Governor Sanwoolu's THEMES+ development agenda.