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The Anambra State Commander of the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), Ibadin Judith-Chukwu, has warned that human trafficking in the state is reaching alarming levels, with a disturbing trend of young people cohabiting to produce babies for sale. Speaking during an interview with journalists in her office in Awka on Saturday, Judith-Chukwu highlighted the growing menace, particularly in rural communities.
Judith-Chukwu disclosed a troubling pattern where young women are lured into relationships under false pretenses, such as marriage proposals, only for their newborns to be sold without their knowledge or consent. “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 explained.
To combat the issue, NAPTIP has established state task forces to curb human trafficking, focusing on rural areas where the practice is most prevalent. Judith-Chukwu emphasized the need for extensive public enlightenment campaigns, particularly in remote communities, to raise awareness about the dangers of human trafficking and baby sales.
The commander noted that while NAPTIP has made significant strides in addressing the issue, the increasing scale of the problem requires greater public cooperation and education to protect vulnerable populations. The agency remains committed to intensifying efforts to dismantle trafficking networks and safeguard communities across Anambra State.
