Upperhill News

The Anambra State Commander of the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), Ibadin Judith-Chukwu, has disclosed that human trafficking is assuming an increasingly disturbing dimension, as youths in the state are now in the business of cohabiting to produce babies for sale.

Judith-Chukwu raised this alarm during an interview with journalists in her office in Awka, saying that young people have resolved to mutually consenting to cohabit with the sole aim of getting pregnant in order to sell babies after delivery.

She said the agency has established the state task force to curb human trafficking in the rural areas, where the practice is most 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, who lamented that the sale of babies is more prevalent in rural communities, emphasised the need for widespread public enlightenment, particularly among residents of remote areas.

“I can say that NAPTIP has performed fairly well by establishing state task forces. These task forces are addressing crimes specific to each state, especially those related to human trafficking.

“The task force in Anambra State is active and being equipped to handle the situation.

“Since its establishment in 2020, the Anambra State Task Force on Human Trafficking has initiated various activities, including public sensitisation campaigns, to raise awareness about the trends and patterns of human trafficking,” she said.

The NAPTIP Commander added that both the agency and the task force are committed to informing and educating the public about the deceptive tactics used by traffickers.

She called on traditional rulers, religious leaders, and other influential figures to join the fight against the so-called “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.

“We are also looking forward to the August meeting, which presents a valuable opportunity for intensive sensitisation,” Judith-Chukwu added