The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) has arraigned Clara Chinwe Deborah Ogo, an 83-year-old retired Army Lt. Col and founder of the Arrow of God Orphanage in Anambra State, for alleged involvement in baby trafficking. The charges were brought before the Federal High Court, Awka Judicial Division, under Justice Hauwa Yilwa.
According to a statement by NAPTIP’s Communication Officer, Adekoye Vincent, Mrs. Ogo faces a one-count charge for allegedly buying and selling a five-month-old female baby on July 6, 2023. This offense is punishable under Section 21 of the Trafficking in Persons (Prohibition) Enforcement and Administration Act, 2015.
The Arrow of God Orphanage came under scrutiny following investigative reports by journalist Fisayo Soyombo in 2023. These reports alleged illicit activities related to illegal adoptions and sales of babies at the orphanage. Consequently, the Anambra State Government handed over Mrs. Ogo to NAPTIP in October 2023. She was arrested on October 3, 2023, at the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Welfare in Awka, Anambra State.
During her arraignment, Clara Ogo pleaded not guilty to the charge. The presiding judge granted her bail set at N1.3 million, with two sureties required in like sum. Pending the fulfilment of her bail conditions, Mrs. Ogo was remanded at the Onitsha Correctional Facility. The case is scheduled for trial on July 10, 2024.
Following the allegations, Anambra State Commissioner for Women and Social Welfare, Ify Obinabo, sealed off the Arrow of God Community Children’s Home in Onitsha. This action was taken after reports circulated alleging illegal child adoptions linked to the state's Ministry of Women and Social Welfare. Commissioner Obinabo, however, denied any involvement in the illegal adoption activities.
This case has brought significant attention to the issue of illegal child trafficking and adoption practices in Nigeria. NAPTIP's involvement underscores the government's commitment to tackling human trafficking and protecting vulnerable individuals. The upcoming trial will be closely watched, as it addresses not only the specific allegations against Mrs. Ogo but also the broader systemic issues within the adoption and child welfare system in the country.
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