Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
A Federal High Court in Calabar has sentenced a couple to 15 years in prison each for their involvement in child trafficking, marking a significant enforcement action against illegal baby sales in Cross River State. The couple, identified as Esther Ini Udo, 32, and Eyo Stephen Udo, 34, were convicted after a thorough investigation and prosecution by the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), which brought the case under the Trafficking in Persons (Prohibition) Enforcement and Administration Act, 2015.
The facts before the court showed that the first defendant, Esther Ini Udo, sold her own newborn baby to a trafficker for ₦300,000. In a separate transaction, the couple purchased a one‑year‑old baby boy for ₦150,000 from two individuals and later resold the same child to the same trafficker for ₦400,000. These dealings were uncovered during the NAPTIP investigation, which presented detailed evidence showing the defendants engaged in deliberate transactions designed to profit from the exploitation of children.
Both defendants pleaded not guilty to the charges during their arraignment. However, the court found that the prosecution successfully established the elements of the offence beyond reasonable doubt. In delivering judgment on April 1, 2026, the presiding judge sentenced Esther and Eyo Udo to 15 years’ imprisonment each, with an alternative fine option of ₦2 million. The sentences were ordered to run concurrently from the date of judgment.
In his ruling, the judge described the trafficking and sale of infants as a grievous violation of human dignity and a threat to the welfare of children. He stressed that the judiciary would continue to enforce anti‑trafficking laws firmly to protect vulnerable members of society and deter others from engaging in similar criminal enterprises.
Beyond the convictions of the couple, the court directed NAPTIP to pursue the arrest and trafficker identified as the buyer in the case, who is still at large. Authorities say that her capture could lead to further dismantling of trafficking networks linked to illegal child sales.
The case reflects ongoing challenges in the region, where child trafficking and unlawful adoption schemes have periodically been uncovered by law enforcement. Such operations often exploit vulnerable women or families, offering false promises or financial incentives that ultimately lead to the exploitation and transfer of children for profit.
Human trafficking, including the sale of infants, remains a persistent concern in Nigeria. Poverty, unemployment, and gaps in enforcement have been identified as factors that allow traffickers to exploit loopholes and operate illicitly. Child protection advocates have repeatedly called for stronger preventive measures, including public awareness campaigns and social support systems for at‑risk families.
NAPTIP, the federal agency mandated to combat trafficking, has been active in Cross River and other states, intensifying surveillance and collaborative efforts with law enforcement to disrupt trafficking rings. Officials welcomed the conviction as a strong message that offenders will face serious consequences under Nigerian law.
Civil society organisations and child rights groups also lauded the court’s judgment, describing it as a deterrent that underscores the importance of protecting children from exploitation. They highlighted the need for broader efforts to support vulnerable communities and strengthen systems that safeguard the rights and welfare of children.
Legal and policy experts say that while prosecutions like this are critical, addressing root causes of trafficking requires long‑term social interventions. Enhancing poverty alleviation programmes, improving access to education and healthcare, and building capacity within communities are viewed as necessary complements to law enforcement actions.
As the convicted couple begins serving their sentences, authorities emphasised that anyone found engaging in similar activities will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. The verdict is expected to reinforce ongoing efforts to confront human trafficking and promote child protection across the country.
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