Exposed!: Anambra Youths Now Producing Babies for Sale, NAPTIP Raises Alarm
By: Israel Adeleke
OPEN TELEVISION NAIJA (OTN) News reports that the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), has raised serious concerns over a disturbing rise in human trafficking in Anambra State, revealing a growing trend where young people cohabit solely to produce babies for sale.
OTN News further reports that the State Commander of NAPTIP, Mrs. Judith-Chukwu, disclosed this worrisome development during an interview with journalists at her office in Awka on Saturday.
She described the situation as “increasingly alarming,” particularly in rural areas where the practice has become more prevalent.
According to her, we have seen situations where a girl gets pregnant, and then someone suddenly presents a marriage proposal.
“After she gives birth, often without her knowledge or consent, the man takes the baby and sells it.” she said.
Judith-Chukwu explained that this illicit practice is often disguised as legitimate relationships but is driven by the intent to traffic infants.
She said that the agency has documented cases where such arrangements were premeditated solely for child-selling purposes.
To combat the rising threat, she said NAPTIP has established state task forces focused on identifying and curbing trafficking activities in rural communities.
“I can say that NAPTIP has performed fairly well by establishing state task forces,” she noted. “These task forces are addressing crimes specific to each state, especially those related to human trafficking.” she added.
Furthermore, the Commander stressed the need for broader public enlightenment to help residents, especially in remote areas, identify and resist the deceptive tactics employed by traffickers.
She called on traditional rulers, religious leaders, and community influencers to lend their voices to the fight against what she termed “an organised crime.”
“We are engaging critical stakeholders such as sister law enforcement agencies, religious bodies, and community groups to ensure the message gets to every corner of the state,” she said.
She also expressed optimism about the upcoming August meeting, describing it as “a valuable opportunity for intensive sensitisation.”
NAPTIP, however, urged residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities related to child trafficking to the appropriate authorities.
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