…Also Supports Motherless Babies Home
In a compassionate outreach marked by empathy and commitment to humanity, former Deputy Governorship Candidate of the Young Progressives Party (YPP) and philanthropist, Dr. Chimaobi Desmond Anyaso, paid a heartfelt visit to the Leprosy Settlement Colony in Lohum, Umuimenyi, and the Motherless Babies Home, both located in Bende Local Government Area of Abia State.
During the visit, Dr. Anyaso donated food items and cash gifts to the residents of the colony, many of whom live in severely deteriorating conditions. He also presented similar donations, including yams, to the children at the Motherless Babies Home.
“Regardless of your condition, God has not forgotten you,” Dr. Anyaso told the residents. “He is still in the business of healing and restoring, and I believe He will visit you completely if you believe.”
The visit laid bare the dilapidated state of most buildings in the colony, especially the historic chapel where the late gospel music icon, Harcourt Whyte,a former inmate renowned for his soul-lifting hymns composed many of his songs. Today, the once-revered structure stands in near ruin, mirroring the general decline of the center.
Of particular concern were the leaky and unsafe residential quarters that shelter elderly inmates and children, many of whom live in harsh conditions, relying entirely on charity and goodwill.
Deeply moved by what he saw, Dr. Anyaso announced plans to rebuild the residential quarters, repair the generator set, and drill a borehole to improve access to clean water. Additionally, he donated five solar-powered street lights to enhance security and quality of life for the settlement.
“We cannot continue to look away. These are our people, and we must do our part to restore their dignity,” he said. “I urge the government and other well-meaning Nigerians to come forward and support this community. Let us make their living conditions more humane.”
At the Motherless Babies Home, Dr. Anyaso offered words of hope and encouragement to the children.
“You are not truly motherless because you have parents in us all,” he reassured them. “Be obedient and respectful to your caregivers. Remember, there is light at the end of the tunnel.”
In response, the Director of the centers, Very Rev. Nnaemeka Ajike, praised Dr. Anyaso for his unprecedented generosity.
“This is the first time since the inception of the colony and the Babies Home that we have received such a comprehensive donation,” he said. “We pray God will bless Dr. Anyaso immensely for his kindness.”
Moved by his compassion, the children and inmates showered heartfelt prayers upon Dr. Anyaso, expressing gratitude and blessings for his benevolence.
Established in 1932 by Methodist missionaries, the Uzuakoli Leprosy Centre spans over 50 hectares and once stood as a beacon of hope for leprosy patients across the region. Originally a treatment and rehabilitation facility, it now struggles to meet even the basic needs of its residents.
Dr. Anyaso’s visit serves as a powerful call to action, reminding public officials and private citizens alike of the urgent need to extend care and dignity to society’s most vulnerable.
