The Anambra State Government has handed over suspects allegedly linked to the sale of a newborn baby for ₦2.5 million to the police for investigation and possible prosecution.
The case involves Precious Uchenna, who reportedly accommodated the baby’s mother after she was allegedly rejected by her family.
The Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Welfare, Mrs. Chinyere Esther Onyekesi, said Uchenna allegedly facilitated the transfer of the newborn to her sister without involving the ministry or the Nigeria Police Force.
According to the Commissioner, the matter is being treated as a suspected case of child trafficking.
During questioning, Uchenna allegedly disclosed that ₦2.5 million was realised from the transaction, out of which ₦300,000 was reportedly given to the baby’s mother.
She was, however, unable to satisfactorily account for the remaining ₦2.2 million, according to the Commissioner. The alleged recipient of the baby was also present during the questioning.
Following the development, Onyekesi directed that the individuals involved be handed over to the police for further investigation and possible prosecution.
The Commissioner warned that adoption, custody and child welfare matters must be handled through legally recognised procedures, stressing that private agreements or informal arrangements cannot authorise the sale or unlawful transfer of a child.
She reiterated the Anambra State Government’s commitment to combating child trafficking, illegal adoption and other practices that threaten the safety and welfare of children.
The government also urged members of the public to report suspicious child welfare and adoption activities to the appropriate authorities.
The allegations remain under investigation, and the suspects have not been convicted of any offence.
