Police in Cross River State have arrested two health workers and a serving female soldier for their alleged roles in the theft and illegal sale of a newborn baby in Akamkpa Local Government Area.
The shocking case, described by investigators as “a grave breach of professional trust,” has sparked outrage within the community.
The incident came to light when 19-year-old Justina Valentine Boniface, a resident of Aningeje village, sounded the alarm over the mysterious disappearance of her baby boy shortly after birth.
Boniface explained that she had registered for antenatal care at the Primary Health Centre in Aningeje and delivered her child there on August 12, 2025.
According to her account, she was resting after childbirth when the two nurses on duty, identified as 45-year-old Ndifon Nelly Ekpu and 38-year-old Obi Mary Baken, informed her that her newborn had died. They claimed the baby had already been buried within the hospital compound—a revelation that left the young mother devastated.
However, Boniface soon became suspicious of inconsistencies in their story. Determined to uncover the truth, she began making inquiries, which eventually led her to believe that her baby was still alive. She promptly reported her concerns to the police, triggering an investigation.
Police operatives swiftly moved to arrest the two nurses. During questioning, they reportedly admitted that the baby had not died but had been sold. Their alleged buyer was identified as Warrant Sergeant Aisha Yakubu, a serving member of the Nigerian Army. Yakubu was also arrested.
Law enforcement officials said that further investigations are ongoing to identify and apprehend the final recipient of the child and to ensure the baby’s safe recovery. Authorities have vowed that all those involved will face the full weight of the law.
Security analyst Zagazola Makama, who first reported the case on Friday, described the incident as “a disturbing reminder of how vulnerable mothers and infants can be when placed in the care of those who abuse their positions.”
The case has reignited calls for stricter monitoring of health facilities in rural areas, as well as more robust background checks for medical personnel, in order to prevent similar abuses in the future.
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