Sept. 26, 2025
The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) has urged the Delta State Government to investigate alleged unwholesome activities at Happy Home Orphanage, Asaba, Delta State.
Director-General of NAPTIP, Hajia Binta Adamu-Bello, made the call during a press conference in Abuja on Friday, following ongoing controversy surrounding a recent operation conducted by the agency.
Adamu-Bello said the orphanage, owned by Mr. Christopher Nwoye, must be thoroughly investigated, especially in light of serious allegations involving the illegal acquisition and sale of stolen children.
NAPTIP had earlier announced in a Sept. 17 statement that its June operation in Asaba led to the rescue of eight children suspected to have been trafficked from Kano State.
“Eight of them were identified as those allegedly stolen from Kano.”
Adamu-Bello urged the Delta Government to act swiftly, noting that further investigation could reveal more details about operations at the orphanage and the true origins of the children found there.
She said the press briefing was necessary to clarify misinformation circulating, particularly on social media, which falsely accused the agency of abducting children during the Asaba operation.
The NAPTIP boss explained that the suspect, Nwoye, had refused to honour invitations for questioning and had been unreachable in spite of contact attempts through phone calls and his lawyers.
“Some individuals have gone as far as labelling our lawful rescue operation as an abduction, which is false and damaging,” she said, reaffirming the agency’s commitment to transparency and justice.
Adamu-Bello stated that NAPTIP operated within the bounds of the Trafficking in Persons (Prohibition) Enforcement and Administration Act, 2015, which empowered it to rescue victims and prosecute offenders.
She emphasised that the agency remained committed to concluding its investigation swiftly, ensuring prosecution of all those found culpable, and reuniting rescued children with their lawful families.
“We owe the public a duty to act responsibly and lawfully,” she said, noting that NAPTIP had zero tolerance for unethical practices and would continue its work without fear or favour. (NAN)
