Anambra rescues US-based tennis star found wandering

 Anambra rescues US-based tennis star found wandering

29th January 2024

The Anambra State Government, in collaboration with the Ministry of Women and Social Welfare, has successfully rescued Tania Okpala, a United States Table Tennis champion, who was discovered wandering the streets of Awka, the state capital. A viral video circulating on social media captured Okpala in a distressed state, prompting the state Commissioner for Women and Social Welfare, Ify Obinabo, to swiftly respond to the situation.

According to the commissioner's media aide, Chidimma Ikeanyionwu, the rescue mission was initiated following a directive from the state governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo. The commissioner promptly organized the rescue and rehabilitation efforts to address the tennis star's situation.

In an official statement released on Monday, Ikeanyionwu confirmed the successful rescue, stating, "The Anambra State government has rescued one Ms. Tania Okpala, a US-based tennis champion who was found wandering the streets of the state capital and was captured in a viral video on social media by a good-spirited member of the public."

The statement further highlighted the distressed appearance of Okpala in the video, prompting the government's swift response to rescue, rehabilitate, and reunite her with her family. The commissioner, acting on the governor's directive, assured Okpala of the state government's commitment to her well-being and emphasized the provision of the best treatment and rehabilitation to support her recovery.

Governor Soludo, through a phone interaction with Okpala, conveyed the government's determination not to forsake her. He assured her of comprehensive support for her full recovery and reintegration into society. Okpala, in recounting her ordeal, disclosed that despite being a US-based tennis champion, she succumbed to crack cocaine addiction due to negative peer influence.

She also shared the tragic loss of her mother to cancer a few years ago, a loss she has struggled to overcome. Okpala, originally from Nkpologwu in Aguata Local Government Area of Anambra State, revealed that she has a six-year-old daughter residing with her father in Nkpologwu. In a heartfelt plea, she urged the governor's wife to assist in reuniting her with her daughter. The Anambra State Government's prompt intervention reflects its commitment to the welfare and rehabilitation of citizens facing challenging circumstances.