NAPTIP Interrogates Orphanage Owner, Four Women in Child Trafficking Probe

The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) has commenced interrogation of Christopher Ogugua Nwoye, owner of Happy Home Orphanage in Asaba, Delta State.

The agency is also interrogating four women from Delta State who claim ownership of some children recently rescued from the orphanage.

The development follows the rescue of eight children allegedly stolen from Kano State by NAPTIP operatives a few months ago.

According to a statement signed by the National Press Officer of NAPTIP, Vincent Adekoye, Nwoye surrendered to NAPTIP on Thursday at the agency’s Abuja headquarters accompanied by his lawyer and the four women, after previously refusing to respond to invitations for investigation.

The Director General of NAPTIP, Binta Adamu Bello, clarified that the rescue operation was lawful and intelligence-driven, dismissing allegations that the children were abducted and forced to change their religion.

Speaking to dispel distorted narratives and rumours, Bello emphasised that NAPTIP’s actions were in line with the Trafficking in Persons (Prohibition) Enforcement and Administration Act, 2015.

She stated that the agency remains neutral and the rescued children are receiving proper care in a protective shelter pending conclusion of investigations.

“It is very important that Mr. Christopher is in our facility now in connection with the alleged stolen Children that were traced to his Orphanage and rescued by Operatives of NAPTIP. His presence is crucial to the ongoing investigation.

“It is also important for stakeholders, including the media to know that NAPTIP remains neutral in this matter. The Children were rescued and are in a protective shelter with the best care pending the conclusion of the investigation. They were never forced to embrace another religion, and they will not be forced to do so.

“The women who claimed ownership of the Children who have refused to respond to our invitation are also here in our facility, and they are being interviewed to ascertain their claims.

“I wish to reiterate my earlier position that this case will be thoroughly investigated to uncover the truth, including the conduct of DNA, before a final decision will be taken on the parenthood of the Children involved,” she stated.