Nigeria: Desperate Circumstances: Borno Woman Seeks to Sell Infant for N1 Million in Lagos Drug Zone
By Ahmad Hadizat Omayoza, Mamos Nigeria
In the heart of the Akala drug zone, located in Fadeyi, Idi-Oro/Odi-Olowu, Lagos, a distressing story unfolds as Aisha, a Borno woman grappling with drug addiction, resorts to selling her two-week-old baby for N1 million. Aisha’s descent into drug addiction began two years ago when she was brought to Akala by an undisclosed person, subsequently selling a car entrusted to her for the sole purpose of funding her addiction. Over time, her behavior became erratic, often collecting plastics to supplement her income for obtaining drugs.
On the night of November 30, 2023, Aisha gave birth at a Redeemed Church near Surulere Girls Secondary School. Kemi Oguns, a noodle seller, assisted in the delivery and shed light on her relationship with Aisha. Kemi, having known Aisha for over eight months, described the circumstances surrounding the birth and Aisha’s struggles, mentioning that she was brought to Akala from Ikoyi and had even sold her car to sustain her addiction.
Aisha’s struggles with drugs and her newborn caught the attention of Kemi’s mother, Mrs. Jacob Mojisola, who has been caring for Aisha and the baby. Despite attempts by some individuals claiming to be from the baby’s family to take the child, Mrs. Mojisola insisted on reporting the situation to the Alakara police station. However, welfare officials suggested it wasn’t suitable to keep both mother and child at the station, leading them to Alausa.
During this tumultuous journey, Aisha, instead of being separated from her child, was handed the baby back. She then returned to Akala, where she shockingly offered to sell the infant for N1 million. The leader of Akala intervened, urging Mrs. Mojisola to take custody of the baby due to concerns about Aisha’s treatment of the child.
Further insights from Kenneth Obaraye, who dealt with a similar case last year, hinted at Aisha’s connection to a family involved in drug selling in the ghetto. There were also rumors about Aisha being a National Youth Service Corps member. In an interview, Aisha disclosed her origin from Damboa Local Government in Borno State.
This harrowing tale raises questions about the impact of drug addiction on vulnerable individuals, emphasizing the need for intervention and support systems. The interconnected web of Aisha’s struggles, the birth of her child, and the involvement of individuals with questionable backgrounds paints a bleak picture of the challenges faced by those caught in the throes of addiction within marginalized communities.
As we reflect on this distressing narrative, it underscores the urgency for comprehensive measures addressing drug addiction and providing assistance to those in need, striving to break the cycle of despair and vulnerability in our society.
