NAPTIP secures 14-year jail term for couple in Ondo for operating baby factory; assets forfeited and victims awarded restitution

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 running a baby factory in Ilutitun, Okitipupa Local Government Area of Ondo State.

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The Lagos Zonal Commander of NAPTIP, Mrs Comfort Agboko, disclosed the conviction during a press briefing at the agency’s headquarters in Ikeja on Tuesday, noting that the judgment followed an 11-year trial before a Federal High Court in Akure.

Agboko explained that the case was initially referred to NAPTIP by the Nigerian Immigration Service in January 2014, prompting a detailed investigation that revealed underage pregnant girls were detained at the couple’s country home at No. 10 Sarajo Street, Ilutitun, awaiting delivery for sale.

Investigators seized numerous items from the premises, including hospital cards, eight cars with keys, two bungalows, N4 million in cash, a poultry farm, and various domestic animals. NAPTIP obtained a court order on May 12, 2014, to seal and seize the properties.

Justice F. A. Olubanjo found the couple guilty on a 10-count charge relating to unlawful detention and deprivation of personal liberty, contrary to Section 19(c) of the Trafficking in Persons (Prohibition) Law Enforcement and Administration Act, 2003.

The court sentenced the defendants to 14 years’ imprisonment without an option of fine and ordered the forfeiture of their eight cars, two bungalows, and N4 million cash to the Federal Government.

The properties are to be auctioned, with N1 million each awarded as restitution to the three victims who testified during the trial.

Describing the judgment as a landmark achievement, Agboko said it would serve as a strong deterrent to human traffickers. She commended the judiciary, the Nigerian Immigration Service, the Nigeria Police in Akure, and other stakeholders for their support.

“The conviction sends a clear warning to perpetrators of human trafficking that, no matter how long it takes, they will eventually face the full wrath of the law,” she said.

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The case adds to NAPTIP’s growing record of successes in the fight against human trafficking across Nigeria.