Operatives of Niger State Intelligence Department carried out an intelligence-driven raid on June 3, 2026, at a residence located behind the old NEPA area in Suleja. During the operation, two women — Mrs. Promise Chukwudi, 68, and her alleged accomplice, Mrs. Suzanna Onojekwo, 62 — were arrested over suspected involvement in child trafficking and ritual-related activities.
Four children, aged between four and seven years, were rescued at the scene, while an additional child was recovered from Onojekwo’s residence on Church Road within the same town.
The suspects claimed that the children were entrusted to them by parents from Karim-Lamido in Gassol Local Government Area of Taraba State between November 2025 and February 2026 for adoption purposes.
Chukwudi reportedly stated that she previously operated the Precious Promise Nursery, Primary and Orphanage Home in 2022 and resumed its activities in November 2025. She also identified herself as a licensed herbal medical practitioner.
However, police investigations uncovered inconsistencies in their statements. Several parents from Abuja, Nasarawa, and Benue States later came forward to identify the rescued children as theirs, casting doubt on the adoption claims.
A search of the suspects’ premises led to the discovery of a shrine, animal skulls, multi-coloured fabrics, bird feathers, and other fetish items, further raising suspicions of ritual practices.
The suspects have since been transferred to the Police Headquarters in Minna for further investigation and have been charged in court with criminal conspiracy, child trafficking, and related offences.
Meanwhile, the rescued children have been handed over to child protection agencies for care, as efforts continue to reunite them with their biological families.
