COURT JAILS COUPLE 15 YEARS FOR BABY TRAFFICKING IN CROSS RIVER

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By Aishat Momoh. O.

The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) has secured the conviction of a couple for trafficking babies in Cross River State.

The convicts, Esther Ini Udo, 32, and Eyo Stephen Udo, 34, were sentenced to 15 years’ imprisonment each by the Federal High Court sitting in Calabar.

According to NAPTIP, the couple were arraigned on a four-count charge bordering on the buying and selling of babies for exploitation, in violation of the Trafficking in Persons (Prohibition) Enforcement and Administration Act, 2015.

The agency disclosed that the first convict sold her newborn baby for N300,000 to a buyer identified as Oluchi Judith, who is currently at large. The couple also reportedly purchased a one-year-old baby boy for N150,000 and resold the child to the same buyer for N400,000.

The offences formed the basis of charge number FHC/CA/19C/2025, filed on March 19, 2025. Although the defendants pleaded not guilty, the court found them culpable.

Delivering judgment, Justice I. Ojukwu sentenced both convicts to 15 years’ imprisonment, with an option of a N2 million fine each. The sentences are to run concurrently from the date of judgment.

Justice Ojukwu condemned the crime, warning the public against engaging in child trafficking for financial gain. The court also directed NAPTIP to apprehend the alleged buyer for prosecution.

The conviction underscores ongoing efforts by NAPTIP to combat human trafficking and protect vulnerable children across Nigeria.