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The Anambra State Government, in collaboration with security agencies, has once again shut down a baby factory operating under the false identity of a medical facility. The centre, previously raided in February 2024, was discovered functioning under the guise of Mother and Child Hospital and Maternity in Umunya, located in Oyi Local Government Area.
The facility is linked to a self-proclaimed doctor, Odili Ossai, from Delta State. During the initial February 2024 operation, no fewer than six pregnant teenage girls were rescued. At the time, Ossai was declared wanted and remains on the run.
Months of Surveillance Lead to Second Raid
Speaking with journalists after the follow-up raid on Saturday, the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Afam Obidike, revealed that the latest operation was the outcome of several months of coordinated surveillance and intelligence gathering.He explained that the operation was conducted in partnership with security operatives and officials from Operation Clean and Healthy Anambra (OCHA Brigade).
“The so-called hospital was operating under a falsified license and owned by a self-acclaimed medical doctor, Odili Ossai, from Delta,” Obidike stated.
Young Girls Exploited and Forced Into Pregnancies
According to the Commissioner, the syndicate was engaged in the trafficking and exploitation of young girls aged 15, 19, and 21. Many of them were allegedly held against their will and deliberately impregnated, with their newborns sold into illegal adoption networks.“Several teenage girls and infants were rescued during the raid. They are currently receiving comprehensive medical treatment and psychological care,” Obidike confirmed.
He added that relevant authorities have commenced a full investigation into the matter, and the suspects arrested during the raid will face charges that include human trafficking, unlawful detention, and child exploitation.
Dr. Obidike described the raid as a critical victory in the state’s ongoing efforts to combat child trafficking, gender-based violence, and human rights violations.
Renewed Crackdown on Illegal Health Facilities
Reaffirming the state’s unwavering resolve to eradicate quackery in healthcare, the Commissioner emphasized the government’s commitment to shutting down unlicensed and illegal medical facilities to protect citizens’ health and safety.He noted that the activities of the Health Facility Accreditation and Monitoring Unit, along with the Anti-Quackery Taskforce, have been intensified to identify and close unauthorized centres across the state.
Dr. Obidike also called on residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious health practices, warning that any facility found operating without proper licensing would face full legal consequences.
“The Anambra State Government will not tolerate threats to public safety, human dignity, or the wellbeing of vulnerable individuals. We will continue to pursue justice and safeguard the lives of our people,” he concluded.
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