Landmark Baby Factory Conviction Sparks Court Reform Calls

On February 26, 2026, the Federal High Court in Akure sentenced Princ Ogundeji Abiodun and Mr. Ayodel Ogundeji to 14 years in prison without the option of a fine for operating a baby factory in Ilu Titun, Okitipupa Local Government Area, Ondo State.

This conviction marks the end of an 11-year legal battle that began when the case was first referred to the Nigerian Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) in January 2014. The couple was found guilty on ten counts of unlawfully detaining individuals against their will and depriving them of liberty.

Investigations revealed that underage pregnant girls were held against their will until they delivered babies, which were subsequently sold. The case has prompted discussions on the need for specialized trafficking courts to expedite justice for victims and combat human trafficking effectively in Nigeria.