The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) has secured a 14-year prison sentence for Abiodun Ogundeji and Happiness Ogundeji for operating a baby factory in Ilutitun, Okitipupa LGA of Ondo State.
Lagos Zonal Commander, Mrs Comfort Agboko, said the conviction followed an 11-year trial at the Federal High Court in Akure. The case was referred to NAPTIP by the Nigerian Immigration Service in 2014.
Investigations revealed that underage pregnant girls were detained at the couple’s residence and forced to deliver babies for sale. Justice F. A. Olubanjo found them guilty on a 10-count charge and sentenced them to 14 years’ imprisonment without the option of a fine.
The court also ordered the forfeiture of eight cars, two bungalows, and N4 million recovered during the investigation to the Federal Government, while directing that N1 million each be paid to three victims as restitution.
Agboko described the judgment as a landmark ruling and a strong warning to human traffickers nationwide.
