NSCDC Rescues 18 Pregnant Women in Popular Lagos Baby Factory Raid

By Micheal Chukwuebuka

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Lagos State Command, has uncovered an illegal baby factory in Okuju, Ilado, Badagry, rescuing 18 pregnant women and 10 children.

Two suspects, Joy Okeke and Raphael Agwu, were arrested in the raid, which took place from Wednesday night into Thursday morning. Authorities say babies were allegedly exchanged for money in the facility.

According to NSCDC, victims were recruited through Facebook groups linked to unwanted pregnancies and adoption offers.

Pregnant women were reportedly promised ₦500,000 to ₦1.8 million after delivery in exchange for their babies.

Lagos NSCDC Commandant Adedotun Keshinro said the operation followed three weeks of surveillance before operatives stormed the building, which had multiple rooms housing victims.

He said 17 of the women were still pregnant while one had a miscarriage. The facility also had infants and children allegedly kept for sale.

Keshinro called the case a “grievous crime against humanity” and said suspects will be handed to the police, while victims will be transferred to NAPTIP.

Recovered items included baby products, generators, gas cylinders, phones, and household items, suggesting long-term activity.

One suspect, Joy Okeke, claimed she ran an “adoption arrangement,” saying women came voluntarily and agreed to give up their babies after birth for payment. She said she would only speak in court with her lawyer present.

Raphael Agwu also defended the operation, saying participants joined through online groups and signed agreements, describing it as support for childless couples and women with unwanted pregnancies.

However, NSCDC insists the operation was exploitative and illegal, saying victims were lured and financially induced to surrender their babies.