The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) has arraigned Clara Chinwe Deborah Ogo, an 83-year-old retired army officer and founder of the Arrow of God Orphanage in Anambra State, on charges of baby trafficking.
In a statement released by NAPTIP’s Communication Officer, Adekoye Vincent, Ogo was arraigned before the Federal High Court, Awka Judicial Division, presided over by Justice Hauwa Yilwa. She faces charges for allegedly buying and selling a five-month-old baby on July 6, 2023, in violation of the Trafficking in Persons (Prohibition) Enforcement and Administration Act, 2015.
The case against Ogo emerged following an investigation by journalist Fisayo Soyombo, who exposed illegal adoption and baby-selling activities at the orphanage. This led to the Anambra State Government handing Ogo over to NAPTIP in October 2023.
Ogo pleaded not guilty to the charges. The court granted her bail set at N1.3 million with two sureties. She remains at the Onitsha Correctional Facility until bail conditions are met. The trial is scheduled for July 10, 2024.
In response to the allegations, Anambra State Commissioner for Women and Social Welfare, Ify Obinabo, sealed off the Arrow of God Orphanage. This action followed Soyombo's documentary, which implicated the state ministry and a registered home in illegal adoptions. Obinabo has denied any involvement in the illegal activities.
