Edo State Task Force Apprehends Couple For Selling One-Month-Old Baby To Fund Drug Addiction

In a shocking turn of events, the Edo State Task Force Against Human Trafficking has arrested a 48-year-old man, Anthony Igbinogun, and his girlfriend, Joy Umukoro, 28, for allegedly selling their one-month-old baby to fund their drug addiction. The suspects were paraded before newsmen earlier today, where details of their illicit activities were revealed.

Head of the Investigation Unit of the task force, Abigail Ihonre, disclosed that the apprehended couple conspired with their friend, 26-year-old Precious James, who facilitated the illegal transaction and connected them to a buyer in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.

The investigation revealed that the baby was sold for a sum of N1.7 million (Nigerian Naira). Efforts are underway to rescue the infant and apprehend the buyer, while the investigation into the case remains ongoing.

“Joy Umukoro, the mother of the baby, gave birth to the child in April 2023 and conspired with her boyfriend to sell their baby for N1.7 million,” stated Ihonre. “She has confessed to the crime of selling the baby. Investigation into the case continues as we intensify efforts to locate the buyers and the baby. The matter will be charged to court by Monday, June 26, 2023, ensuring that all those involved face the consequences of their criminal activities.”

The suspects claimed that they resorted to this heinous act because they were unable to care for the baby due to their drug addiction. However, the authorities emphasize that selling a child is not a solution and can lead to severe penalties, including up to seven years of imprisonment for trafficking offenses. The public is urged to seek assistance from relevant agencies, such as the Edo State Task Force Against Human Trafficking or the Ministry of Gender and Women Affairs, if they are unable to care for their children.

When questioned, Joy Umukoro revealed that they agreed to sell the baby to a willing buyer for N700,000. Out of the amount received, N500,000 was paid in cash, N170,000 was given to the agent who facilitated the transaction, and the rest was used for drugs and other expenses.

The baby’s father, Anthony Igbinogun, explained that they both decided to sell the child because the mother claimed she couldn’t provide proper care. Umukoro allegedly informed him that their friend, Precious James, had found a buyer, leading to Umukoro’s trip to Rivers State to finalize the sale. Upon her return, she gave Igbinogun N100,000.

Precious James, the friend who facilitated the illegal deal, admitted that drug addiction played a significant role in their decision to sell the baby. She revealed that Umukoro informed her about the sale and used the proceeds to purchase drugs for both of them.