Oyo Police Rescue Newborn Baby Allegedly Sold for N2m by Mother

Introduction

The Oyo State Police Command has rescued a one-month-old baby girl allegedly sold by her mother for N2m, sparking a major investigation into child trafficking in the state.

What Happened

According to police reports, the infant was born on September 6 at a health facility in Ido Local Government Area. Her 23-year-old mother allegedly arranged the sale through a health facility owner and an intermediary named Oludunni, with the baby reportedly sold to a buyer identified as Folawewo. The mother disappeared with the child about seven days after delivery, prompting suspicions and a police response.

DSP Olayinka Ayanlade, the state Police Public Relations Officer, stated that the mother confessed during interrogation that the health facility owner and Oludunni facilitated the transaction. Investigations revealed the mother received N1m of the N2m asking price, while the facility owner and Oludunni each collected N500,000.

Why This Matters

This case highlights ongoing vulnerabilities in child protection, particularly within healthcare settings meant to be safe spaces. It underscores the need for stricter oversight of health facilities and swift police action against those who exploit vulnerable mothers and newborns.

Child rights advocates say the incident serves as a grim reminder that trafficking can occur even in seemingly routine medical situations, and that community vigilance and rapid reporting are critical to preventing such crimes.

Key Takeaways

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• The Oyo State Police Command rescued the infant and is actively pursuing the alleged buyer and other suspects.
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• The mother, a health facility owner, and an intermediary named Oludunni are implicated in the transaction.
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• Financial records from the alleged sale show the mother got N1m, while the facilitators received N500,000 each.
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• Police have urged the public to report any suspected child trafficking cases promptly.
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Conclusion

The rescue of the one-month-old girl marks a significant victory for law enforcement in Oyo State, but the case remains under investigation. Authorities continue to search for the alleged buyer and are working to ensure all involved face appropriate legal consequences. The incident reinforces the importance of community awareness and swift action in protecting vulnerable children.