In a disturbing incident that has shocked the residents of Akwa Ibom State, the police have apprehended a couple accused of trafficking and selling their own child for ₦450,000. The arrest was made possible through a tip-off, leading to a series of investigations that unveiled a broader network of child trafficking within the region.
The Arrest
On January 14, 2025, operatives of the Akwa Ibom State Police Command arrested Christiana Uwem Ibanga and her boyfriend, Inyene Etuk Akpan, in Abuja. The arrest followed a complaint lodged on June 15, 2024, by a woman from Afaha Atai Village, Ibesikpo Asutan Local Government Area. She reported that Ibanga had lured her six-year-old daughter to an undisclosed location.
Confession and Further Revelations
During interrogation, Ibanga confessed to selling her own child in May 2024 for ₦450,000, with the assistance of an accomplice named Saviour Aniedi. She further admitted to conspiring with Aniedi and his wife to abduct the complainant’s six-year-old daughter, who was subsequently sold in Aba, Abia State, to an unidentified buyer.
Ongoing Investigations
The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has intensified efforts to locate and rescue the trafficked child. On January 23, 2025, investigators extended their operations to Aba in pursuit of the buyer and the missing child. While the suspects in Aba remain at large, the police have made significant progress, and their arrest is considered imminent.
Police Warning to Criminals
The state police public relations officer, DSP Timfon John, has issued a stern warning to criminals operating within the state to desist from their nefarious activities or face the full wrath of the law. She emphasized the command’s commitment to ensuring the safety and security of all residents.
Crackdown on Illicit Activities
In a related development, the Akwa Ibom State Police Command has intensified its crackdown on illicit drug dealers and criminal hideouts, leading to multiple arrests. During a recent raid, a female suspect, Happiness George, was apprehended for allegedly selling Indian hemp and other illicit substances. Similarly, at a brothel in Ikot Ebong Village, Odoro Ikot Clan, two women, Queen Sambo Umoren (28) and Joy Chima, were arrested with substances suspected to be Indian hemp and a jackknife. Additionally, Ekemini-Abasi Silas (32) was caught mounting an illegal roadblock at Ikot Ekpenyong Village, where he was found with suspected illicit drugs.
Broader Context of Child Trafficking in Nigeria
Child trafficking remains a significant challenge in Nigeria, with numerous cases reported across various states. In a similar incident, the Lagos State Police Command rescued a two-month-old baby boy from a couple, Mr. and Mrs. James Uwam, during the naming ceremony of the child. Investigations revealed that the couple had purchased the baby from traffickers.
These incidents highlight the pervasive nature of child trafficking in the country and underscore the need for continued vigilance and proactive measures by law enforcement agencies.
Community Response and the Role of Vigilance
The community’s role in combating such heinous crimes cannot be overstated. The arrest of Ibanga and Akpan was made possible due to the prompt reporting by the victim’s mother. This underscores the importance of community vigilance and the need for individuals to report suspicious activities to the authorities promptly.
Government and Non-Governmental Efforts
The Nigerian government, in collaboration with various non-governmental organizations, has been working tirelessly to combat child trafficking. Initiatives include public awareness campaigns, stricter border controls, and rehabilitation programs for rescued victims. However, challenges such as poverty, lack of education, and weak enforcement mechanisms continue to hamper these efforts.
Conclusion
The arrest of Christiana Ibanga and Inyene Akpan serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing battle against child trafficking in Nigeria. It highlights the critical importance of community involvement, vigilant law enforcement, and comprehensive strategies to protect the nation’s children from such egregious violations. As investigations continue, it is hoped that the rescued children will be safely reunited with their families and that the perpetrators will face justice.
