The Edo State Government has uncovered an alleged adoption scam following the closure of an illegal orphanage, Uwadia Children Home, located in Afuze, Owan East Local Government Area.
The operation led to the arrest of the proprietress, Mrs. Grace Efe Uwadia, who has been handed over to the Aideyan Police Station in Benin City for further investigation and possible prosecution.
The Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development disclosed that the case was triggered by a formal complaint from a prospective adopter, Mr. Monday Akpaduma, who reported suspected irregularities in an adoption process.
According to the Commissioner, the complainant alleged that he initially paid ₦250,000 as a processing fee to the orphanage but was later asked to pay an additional ₦1 million before the child could be released to him.
After experiencing delays, he was allegedly informed that the adoption fee had been increased to ₦2 million by the ministry—an assertion that raised suspicion and prompted him to report the matter.
An internal investigation by the ministry reportedly revealed that the documents presented by the complainant were fraudulent and did not originate from the ministry, despite being issued on an outdated official letterhead.
Further allegations linked a staff member of the Social Welfare Department in Owan East Local Government Council, identified as Mr. Vincent Ogbodo, to the issuance of the documents, suggesting possible collusion with the orphanage. The official was not present during the operation, and efforts are ongoing to apprehend him.
The Commissioner stated that the children found in the facility have been evacuated to a safe location, with some currently receiving medical attention.
Reaffirming the government’s stance, she stressed that the Edo State Government maintains zero tolerance for exploitation, fraud, or any illegal practices involving vulnerable children. She also clarified that the ministry does not impose arbitrary or inflated adoption fees.
Members of the public were advised to verify all adoption processes directly with the ministry and report any suspicious activities.
Investigations into the matter are ongoing.
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