A medical doctor, a traditional birth attendant, and the parents of a newborn baby have been arrested in Lagos over the alleged sale of the infant for N2.5 million, according to the Lagos State Police Command. The incident, which unfolded in Ikorodu, involves a complex web of individuals allegedly involved in child trafficking and human exploitation. The arrest follows a police investigation into the suspicious transfer of a newborn shortly after delivery, with authorities confirming that the child was handed over to an unidentified buyer after payment was made. The case has drawn widespread attention due to the involvement of medical professionals and the shocking nature of the crime.
The 28-year-old mother and her boyfriend reportedly decided not to keep the child after birth and began searching for buyers through intermediaries. They were connected to a prospective buyer in the Ikorodu area, where the delivery ultimately took place. The woman initially went to a traditional birth attendant for delivery, but complications during labour necessitated her transfer to a private hospital in Ikorodu. There, a medical doctor performed a Caesarean section that successfully saved both the mother and the newborn.
Investigators allege that the decision to sell the baby was made immediately after delivery, within the hospital premises. The baby was then handed over to the buyer following the payment of N2.5 million. The buyer, however, remains at large as of the latest police update. The arrest of the doctor, traditional birth attendant, and the baby’s parents marks a significant step in the investigation, which is being handled by the Anti-Human Trafficking/Gender Unit of the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID).
The Commissioner of Police in Lagos State, Fatai Tijani, ordered that the case be transferred from Area E Command, Festac, to the SCID for deeper probe and proper legal proceedings. The case is being supervised by Deputy Commissioner of Police Dayo Akinbisehin, who is leading efforts to uncover the full extent of the conspiracy. Authorities are also working to locate the missing buyer and trace any other individuals involved in the network facilitating the illegal transaction.
The incident has raised serious concerns about child trafficking, the role of medical professionals in such crimes, and the vulnerability of newborns in unregulated birthing environments. It also highlights the need for stronger monitoring and oversight in private healthcare facilities and traditional birthing practices. The police have urged the public to report any suspicious activities related to child trafficking or illegal adoption practices.
This case underscores the ongoing challenge of human trafficking in Nigeria, particularly involving infants and vulnerable women. As investigations continue, authorities are expected to take further legal action against those involved. The arrest of these individuals sends a strong message that such crimes will not be tolerated, and the fight against child trafficking remains a top priority for law enforcement.
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