The Anambra State Government, in conjunction with security forces, carried out a rescue operation on Wednesday, liberating six pregnant teenagers from what has been described as a ‘baby-making factory’ located at Umunya in Oyi Local Government Area of the state.
The state’s Commissioner for Health, Dr. Afam Obidike, disclosed to the press that the facility, which operated under the name ‘Mother and Child Hospital and Maternity’, was uncovered during a routine inspection by the state’s Health Facility, Accreditation, and Monitoring Unit.
Upon arrival, the nursing staff at the establishment absconded after being questioned about the facility’s registration status. Subsequently, security personnel, including the OCHA-Brigade, Civil Defence Corps, and the Police, assisted the monitoring team in gaining access to the premises.
Inside the facility, they discovered six underage pregnant girls, aged between 14 and 21, who claimed they were being housed against their will by an individual who identified himself as Mr. Odili Ossai, a self-proclaimed doctor from Delta State, who is currently at large. The commissioner urged the public to report any illegal activities, malpractices, or concerns related to healthcare services in the state. This incident has once again brought to light the issue of illegal and exploitative practices, emphasizing the importance of vigilance and oversight in the healthcare sector.
