NAPTIP has revealed a disturbing rise in organ harvesting and child trafficking in Akwa Ibom. Reports indicate over 750,000 children were trafficked between 2021 and 2024, with some hospitals allegedly involved in organ harvesting.
In a chilling revelation, the National Agency for Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) has accused some medical centers and personnel in Akwa Ibom State of engaging in organ harvesting, a lucrative and clandestine trade.
Speaking in Uyo during the National Human Trafficking Awareness Day 2025, themed “Strengthening Communities by Connecting the Dots,” NAPTIP’s State Zonal Coordinator, Emmanuel Awhen, disclosed that between 2021 and 2024, approximately 750,000 to one million children were abducted for trafficking and exploitative purposes.
Awhen, represented by the Head of Public Enlightenment, Eme Inionong Ukpabio, revealed that the agency has already arrested a suspect linked to organ harvesting. “Organ harvesting is one thing that is very high now. Some clinics in Uyo are involved in this trade, though with apologies to doctors running legitimate businesses,” Awhen said.
The agency reported over 60 convictions of human trafficking offenders during the same period, with 15 cases currently pending in court. Suspects apprehended in organ harvesting cases are often referred to their home states for prosecution.
Highlighting the magnitude of human trafficking in Akwa Ibom, Awhen explained that victims are often coerced, manipulated, or deceived into exploitative situations, including sexual services, forced labor, and organ trafficking. He described the process as involving recruitment, transportation, and transfer by individuals or organized criminal networks.
The Coordinator of the Network Against Child Trafficking, Abuse, and Labour (NACTAL), Peace Edem, stressed the emotional and psychological dangers associated with human trafficking. He called for increased community sensitization to protect innocent individuals from unknowingly falling victim to trafficking schemes.
Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, Mrs. Eno Ime Akpan, praised the efforts of NAPTIP and NACTAL in combating human trafficking. She commended Governor Umo Eno for establishing the ministry, which has played a vital role in addressing trafficking and enhancing the dignity of human lives in Akwa Ibom.
This alarming report underscores the urgent need for stronger measures to tackle organ harvesting and human trafficking in Akwa Ibom. The collaborative efforts of government agencies, NGOs, and community leaders remain critical to combating these heinous crimes and protecting vulnerable populations.
