Fake Reverend Sister Arrested for Trafficking 38 Children in Delta State, Nigeria

The Edo Zonal Command of the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) has arrested a 40-year-old woman, Ikejimba Maryvianney, also known as Oluchi, for her alleged involvement in the trafficking of 38 children in Delta State, Nigeria. Maryvianney, who posed as a fake Reverend sister, and her accomplice Chidera, who is currently at large, entrusted the children to two orphanages, claiming to provide them with improved care.

The children were handed over to the suspects by their parents at a farm community in Enugu-Awka camp located near the Monastery in Ilah, Delta State. NAPTIP has recovered 32 of the children, while 6 between the ages of 3 and 6 are still unaccounted for. The suspect claimed to have received training as a Reverend sister in Ghana, although NAPTIP's headquarters are based in the Philippines.

Maryvianney allegedly convinced the parents to allow their children to join the orphanage homes, where they were promised better care. The agency is still searching for the other suspect and plans to charge the arrested suspect in court once the investigation is concluded. NAPTIP Zonal Commander Nduka Nwanwenne confirmed the incident and stated that the suspect claimed to be trained as a Reverend sister in Ghana, with their headquarters in the Philippines.

The suspect claimed that 3 of the missing children were in Badagry, and the other 3 were in Ogun State, but later said they had been adopted. NAPTIP is actively pursuing the victims and the suspect who is on the run. The agency warned parents to be vigilant and not trust anyone with their children without asking fundamental questions.

Why this matters: This case highlights the ongoing issue of child trafficking in Nigeria and the need for increased vigilance and awareness among parents and communities. The arrest of the fake Reverend sister underscores the importance of thorough background checks and questioning when entrusting children to the care of others.

The NAPTIP Zonal Commander, Barr Nduka Nwanwene, stated that the suspect in custody would be prosecuted and cautioned parents to remain vigilant and inquire thoroughly before entrusting their children to anyone. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the risks children face and the necessity for parents and authorities to work together to combat child trafficking in Nigeria.

Key Takeaways

• NAPTIP arrested a woman posing as a fake Reverend sister for trafficking 38 children
• 32 children recovered, 6 still unaccounted for, ages 3-6
• Suspect claimed to be trained as Reverend sister in Ghana, HQ in Philippines
• Suspect convinced parents to send children to orphanages for "better care"
• NAPTIP warns parents to be vigilant and thoroughly vet those entrusted with children