By Prosper Mene
A Federal High Court in Akure has sentenced a couple to 14 years’ imprisonment for operating a notorious “baby factory” in Ondo State.
Prince Ogundeji Abiodun and his wife, Mrs. Ayodele Ogundeji were convicted following an 11-year legal battle spearheaded by the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP). The sentencing occurred on Thursday, February 26, 2026, before Justice F.A. Olubanjo.
The couple, described as high-profile operators, were found guilty on a 10-count charge, including detaining victims against their will, deprivation of personal liberty, and related offenses under Section 19(c) of the Trafficking in Persons (Prohibition) Enforcement and Administration Act (TIPPLEA) 2003 (as amended).
Investigations revealed that the pair ran the illegal operation from their residence at No. 10 Sarajo Street, Ilu-Titun, in Okitipupa Local Government Area of Ondo State. Underage pregnant girls were allegedly lured or brought to the facility, detained until delivery, and had their babies sold to prospective buyers, often childless individuals or couples seeking to acquire infants illicitly.
The operation came to light in 2014 when the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) referred the case to NAPTIP, leading to the couple’s arrest and the eventual prosecution.
In addition to the prison term, served without the option of a fine, the court ordered the forfeiture of significant assets recovered during investigations. These include eight cars, two bungalows, and ₦4 million in cash, all handed over to the Federal Government through NAPTIP.
Furthermore, three identified victims were awarded ₦1 million each in compensation, highlighting efforts to provide restitution to those exploited.
NAPTIP officials hailed the conviction as a major victory. A spokesperson emphasized that after more than a decade of persistent prosecution, “justice has finally been secured for the victims.” The agency described the outcome as a “landmark conviction” that would serve as a strong deterrent to others involved in similar crimes.
Baby factories remain a persistent issue in parts of Nigeria, often linked to broader human trafficking networks that exploit vulnerable young girls and women, fueled by demand for babies amid cultural stigmas around infertility, adoption, and out-of-wedlock pregnancies.
NAPTIP reiterated its commitment to combating such exploitative practices and urged the public to report suspicious activities involving child trafficking or illegal maternity operations.
