NAPTIP takes orphanage founder to court for human trafficking

NAPTIP communications officer, Adékoye Vincentissued a statement on Sunday confirming that Ogo was arraigned before the Federal High Court, Awka, with Hon. Judge Hauwa Yilwa preside.

The charge against Ogo relates to the alleged purchase and sale of a five-month-old baby on July 6, 2023, at his address in Onitsha. This act is punishable under section 21 of the Trafficking in Persons (Prohibition) Enforcement and Administration Act, 2015.

The Anambra State government had already handed over Ogo to NAPTIP in October 2023 following an investigative journalist. Fisayo Soyombo's expose, which highlighted illegal adoptions and baby trafficking activities associated with his orphanage.

According to the NAPTIP statement, Ogo was arrested on October 3, 2023 at the Ministry of Women and Social Protection in Awka as part of an in-depth investigation launched in response to the revelations.

During his court appearance, Ogo pleaded not guilty. She was released on bail on one bond of ₦1.3 million and two sureties of the same amount, and was remanded in custody at the Onitsha Correctional Facility until her bail conditions are met. filled. The trial is scheduled to continue on July 10, 2024.

Anambra State Commissioner for Women and Social Welfare, If Obinabo, had sealed the Arrow of God Community Children’s Home in Onitsha. The action followed allegations of illegal adoption and sale of children, highlighted by the Soyombo investigation report, which implicated the state Ministry of Women and Social Welfare. Obinabo denied any personal or ministerial involvement in these illegal activities.