Owner of orphanage arrested for buying and selling of babies
In Nigeria, the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) has charged Clara Chinwe Deborah Ogo, an 83-year-old retired Lieutenant Colonel from the Nigerian Army who founded the Arrow of God Orphanage in Anambra State, with human trafficking.
Ogo appeared before Hon. Justice Hauwa Yilwa at the Federal High Court in Awka. The charges are related to claims that her orphanage, which has branches in Lagos State and sites in Nkwelle-Ezunaka, Oyi Local Government Area, Anambra State, and other places, was involved in the purchase and selling of human beings.
The official charge against Ogo states: “That you Ogo Chinwe Clara Deborah (F) 83 Years old, of 66 Awka Road, Onitsha, Anambra State and others (at large), on July 6th, 2023 at the above address within the jurisdiction of this honorable court, did buy and sell a baby, female, 5 (Five) months old, and thereby committed an offense punishable under Sections 21 of the Trafficking in Persons (Prohibition) Enforcement and Administration Act, 2015.”
Ogo enter a not guilty plea to the allegations. She was confined to the Onitsha Correctional Facility until her bail requirements are satisfied. Her bail was set at N1.3 million with two sureties of the same amount. The trial has been set to start on July 10, 2024 by the court.
Authorities have closed the orphanage while they conduct more inquiries.
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