From hut-dwellers to estate owners: How pastor transformed family of girl killed over alleged blasphemy

Apostle Chibuzor Chinyere embraces Deborah Samuel mum after gifting family mini estate and car

The tragic death of Deborah Samuel, the student who was killed for allegedly blaspheming against Prophet Muhammad in Sokoto on May 12, has become the turning point for her family.

The family that once lived in a hut in Niger State are now proud owners of a mini-estate containing 14 flats in Port Harcourt, capital of Rivers State, thanks to the general overseer of Omega Power Ministry (OPM) Apostle Chibuzor Chinyere.

Garba Emmanuel and his wife Aileri and seven remaining children could not believe their eyes on Tuesday, May 24 when they were presented the mini-estate and a car which the clergyman said will be used for Uber business.

Until now, Mr Emmanuel was a security guard with the Niger State Water and Sanitation. His wife was only a housewife.

Chinyere posted photos of the family’s hut on Facebook, noting that only God could have changed their lives.

“From this hut inside a small settlement to Estate owner. Fully furnished, with Air-conditioner, flat screen television and everything needed in a house. Only GOD can do this,” he said.

Many on social media have described the family’s fortune as divinely orchestrated after they said they will not seeking redress in court over the death of their daughter, but will instead leave everything in God’s hands.

Samuel’s killing sparked outrage across the country with many calling for the swift prosecution of two suspects arrested in connection with the killing while some Muslim youths also demanded the release of the suspects.

The protesters rioted, vandalised and burnt stalls, churches and structures perceived to belong to Christians.

Governor Aminu Tambuwal subsequently imposed a curfew on the state to stem the violence that broke out.