The Edo State Police Command has arrested a woman for allegedly selling her newborn baby for ₦1.4 million in Uromi, Edo Central Senatorial District. The shocking development underscores growing concerns over child trafficking in Nigeria, a crime that has attracted both national and international attention in recent years.
The suspect, identified as Martina Dachung, was apprehended following a report by a resident, Ebhomien Matthew Asibor, who noticed what he described as an “illegal child sale arrangement” and promptly informed the police. The Edo State Police Command confirmed the arrest in a statement on Saturday, January 10, 2026, through its spokesperson, ASP Eno Ikoedem.
According to ASP Ikoedem, investigations led to the arrest of two additional suspects, including a medical practitioner who allegedly facilitated the illegal transaction. “On January 8, 2026, one Ebhomien Matthew Asibor of Uromi alerted the command after learning that a mother was allegedly involved in a child trafficking arrangement,” ASP Ikoedem stated.
Acting on the tip-off, operatives from the Iruekpen Divisional Headquarters arrested Martina Dachung, who later helped police apprehend Matron Ighalo Grace of Eguavon Medical Centre in Uromi and a man named Oha Promise, all connected to the transaction.
The police confirmed that the newborn baby boy was safely recovered, and evidence of the payment of ₦1,400,000 was also retrieved. The suspects are expected to be charged to court upon completion of the investigation.
Commissioner of Police in Edo State, CP Monday Agbonika, fdc, reaffirmed the police command’s commitment to fighting crime in the state. He assured residents that the police would continue to take proactive steps to prevent criminal activities, including child trafficking. “We urge members of the public to continue providing timely and credible information to assist the police in maintaining law and order,” he said.
Child trafficking remains a serious challenge in Nigeria. The practice often targets vulnerable families and women facing economic hardship, and victims are frequently sold to buyers for adoption, labor exploitation, or illegal activities. According to UNICEF and other human rights organizations, thousands of children in Nigeria are trafficked every year, often within their own states or across borders in West Africa.
In Edo State, Uromi and other parts of the central district have occasionally been linked to incidents of child trafficking. Law enforcement and civil society groups have intensified campaigns to educate the public on the dangers of child trafficking and the legal consequences for those involved.
“This incident highlights the need for stronger community awareness programs and better monitoring of healthcare providers who may exploit vulnerable families,” said a child protection officer in Benin City who requested anonymity. “It is crucial for parents, guardians, and local leaders to remain vigilant.”
The involvement of a medical practitioner in this case is particularly alarming. Health facilities are expected to protect the welfare of mothers and children, but the alleged complicity of Matron Ighalo Grace in the illegal transaction represents a serious breach of professional ethics and the law.
Child trafficking carries severe penalties under Nigerian law. The Child Rights Act of 2003 criminalizes all forms of child trafficking and stipulates strict jail terms and fines for offenders. Similarly, the Trafficking in Persons (Prohibition) Law Enforcement and Administration Act of 2015 empowers law enforcement agencies to prosecute individuals involved in the recruitment, sale, and exploitation of children.
The recovery of the baby in Uromi provides a rare relief in a country where many trafficked children are never found or reunited with their families. Authorities have called on community members to act as partners in preventing crime, emphasizing that timely reporting of suspicious activities can save lives.
In recent years, Edo State has witnessed a gradual increase in law enforcement efforts to combat child trafficking. Local police commands now collaborate with community vigilante groups, non-governmental organizations, and child protection agencies to monitor potential cases and conduct public awareness campaigns.
CP Agbonika’s announcement also serves as a reminder that public cooperation is vital to maintaining safety and security. “Crime cannot thrive in a society where residents are actively engaged in reporting and monitoring illegal activities,” he said.
Child protection advocates have welcomed the arrests, but they caution that more must be done to prevent such incidents in the first place. Initiatives like public sensitization programs, school-based awareness campaigns, and empowerment schemes for women and vulnerable families are essential tools in reducing the incidence of child trafficking.
While the case against Martina Dachung and her alleged accomplices moves forward, it highlights the ongoing need for vigilance in Nigerian communities. The safe recovery of the newborn baby boy is a positive outcome, but authorities warn that human trafficking remains a persistent threat requiring collective action from the government, families, and civil society.
The Edo State Police have reiterated that any individual found attempting to buy, sell, or exploit children will be arrested and prosecuted under the law. “We are committed to protecting children and ensuring that those who violate their rights face justice,” ASP Ikoedem said.
For now, residents of Uromi and surrounding areas have expressed relief at the police action and the recovery of the child. Community leaders have promised to work closely with law enforcement agencies to prevent future incidents and safeguard the welfare of children.