Nigerian Police Arrest Pastor and Accomplices for Alleged Child Trafficking in Abuja
In a significant crackdown on child trafficking, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command has arrested Pastor Prince Bassey Ajah, the General Overseer of “Wells of Salvation” Church in the Kubwa area of Abuja, along with three accomplices, for allegedly trafficking children. The arrests were made following a tip-off and swift action by the police, leading to the rescue of two minors.
According to a statement by FCT Police Public Relations Officer, SP Josephine Adeh, the operation commenced in the early hours of May 24, 2025, when officials at Wazobia Motor Park in Gwagwalada reported a man exhibiting suspicious behavior while attempting to travel with a young child. The police dispatched an Emergency Response Team to the scene, resulting in the arrest of Israel Ajah, who was found with a seven-year-old boy in his custody.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the child had been handed over to Israel by his elder brother, Pastor Prince Bassey Ajah. Further inquiries led to the arrest of two additional suspects: Nancy Atoo and Deaconess Vera Duru. A search of Nancy Atoo’s residence uncovered a second victim, a four-year-old girl identified only as “Mercy,” a name given to her by the suspect. No documentation or identifying information was found for the child, who is currently in protective custody as efforts are underway to trace her biological family.
The police disclosed that the children were being trafficked to Owerri, Imo State, for sale. The suspects confessed that the seven-year-old boy, identified as Muktar Hassan, was to be sold for ₦1.2 million through arrangements facilitated by Deaconess Vera Duru. Muktar has since been reunited with his family.
YOU MAY READ
They Said My Baby Was Dead, But I Saw Her Again”: Nigerian Woman Accuses Abuja Doctor of Trafficking Missing Twin
The Commissioner of Police, FCT Command, CP Ajao Adewale, commended the vigilance and prompt response of officials at Wazobia Motor Park. He also urged parents and guardians to remain vigilant and avoid sending underage children on errands alone.
This incident is not isolated. In recent years, Nigeria has grappled with numerous cases of child trafficking. For instance, in February 2024, the FCT Police Command arrested Pastor Simon Kado and his relative, Jesse Simon-Kado, for allegedly trafficking 12 children from Nasarawa State to Ogun State. The children, aged between five and 16, were rescued and reunited with their families. (youthousereporters.com.ng, Vanguard News)
In another case, the Arrows of God Orphanage in Ajah, Lagos, was sealed off by police following revelations of baby sales within its premises. An administrative staff member was taken into custody, and the founder, Rev. Colonel Deborah Ogo (Rtd), was remanded in prison by the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP). (The Trent)
The Nigerian government, through agencies like NAPTIP, has intensified efforts to combat human trafficking. Established in 2003, NAPTIP is mandated to enforce laws against human trafficking and related offenses. The agency has investigated over ten thousand cases and prosecuted about five hundred offenders. (Wikipedia)
Additionally, the Network Against Child Trafficking, Abuse and Labour (NACTAL), an umbrella organization of Nigerian NGOs, continues to advocate for children’s rights and campaign against human trafficking. With over 220 member organizations across Nigeria, NACTAL plays a crucial role in raising awareness and supporting victims. (Wikipedia)
The arrest of Pastor Prince Bassey Ajah and his accomplices underscores the persistent challenge of child trafficking in Nigeria. While law enforcement agencies have made significant strides in combating this menace, continued vigilance, public awareness, and community involvement are essential in eradicating child trafficking and ensuring the safety and well-being of all children in the country.
This is a developing story. Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
