The Anambra State Government, in collaboration with security agencies, has shut down an illegal maternity facility—widely suspected to be a “baby factory”—operating in the state capital. The operation led to the rescue of over a dozen teenage girls, some reportedly pregnant, who were allegedly being held against their will.
The raid, which was carried out by operatives of the Anambra State Ministry of Women and Social Welfare and supported by law enforcement officers, followed weeks of intelligence gathering and surveillance on the suspected facility located in the outskirts of Awka.
Commissioner for Women and Social Welfare, Hon. Ify Obinabo, who personally led the operation, described the discovery as "deeply disturbing and a tragic reflection of the rising abuse and exploitation of vulnerable young girls." She confirmed that the rescued teenagers, most of whom are between the ages of 14 and 19, are currently receiving medical care and psychosocial support at a state-owned shelter.
“The Anambra State Government under Governor Charles Soludo remains committed to ending all forms of human trafficking, abuse, and child exploitation. We will not rest until every individual behind this criminal network is brought to justice,” Obinabo said.
Preliminary investigations suggest the facility was involved in the exploitation of young girls for illegal adoption or sale of newborns. The suspected operators of the facility have been taken into custody and will face prosecution under existing child protection and anti-trafficking laws.
Governor Soludo has ordered a full-scale investigation into the incident and directed that all rescued victims be rehabilitated and reintegrated into society. He also called on the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to the appropriate authorities.