NAPTIP Secures 14 Year Jail Term for Ondo ‘Baby Factory’ Couple After 11yrs of Legal Battle

After more than a decade of legal battle, the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) has secured the conviction of a prominent couple who operated an illegal baby factory in Ilu-Titun, Okitipupa Local Government Area of Ondo State.

Prince Ogundeji Abiodun and his wife, Mrs Ayodele Ogundeji, were on February 26, 2026, sentenced to 14 years’ imprisonment without the option of a fine by the Federal High Court sitting in Akure.

Trial judge F.A. Olubanjo found the couple guilty on a 10-count charge bordering on detaining victims against their will and deprivation of personal liberty, contrary to Section 19(c) of the Trafficking in Persons (Prohibition) Law Enforcement and Administration Act (TIPPLEA) 2003.

In addition to the prison term, the court ordered the forfeiture of eight vehicles, two bungalows and ₦4 million recovered during investigations, all to be handed over to the Federal Government through NAPTIP. Three victims who testified during the trial are also to receive ₦1 million each as restitution.

Speaking in Lagos, NAPTIP’s Lagos Zonal Commander, Mrs Comfort Agboko, described the verdict as historic. She revealed that the case was initially referred to the agency by the Nigerian Immigration Service in January 2014.

According to Agboko, investigations uncovered that the couple ran a baby factory within their residence in Ilutitun, where underage pregnant girls were allegedly detained until delivery, after which the babies were reportedly sold to buyers.

She further disclosed that a 2014 court order had earlier sealed and seized properties found on the premises, including vehicles, buildings and cash.

“After over 11 years of trial, justice has finally been secured for the victims. This is a landmark conviction that will surely serve as a deterrent,” Agboko stated.

Describing the ruling as a “double-barrelled judgement,” she said it not only ensured punishment for the offenders but also stripped them of the proceeds of crime while providing restitution to victims.

Reaffirming the agency’s commitment to combating human trafficking, she declared: “We shall continue to smoke them out, no matter their status, big or small.”