Two Arrested Over Alleged Abduction of Toddler for Planned ₦2 Million Sale in Jigawa.
By Bala Salihu Dawakin Kudu Democracy Newsline Northern Bureau Chief
August 7th, 2026.
The Jigawa State Police Command has arrested two suspects over the alleged abduction of a one-and-a-half-year-old child from Babura General Hospital in what investigators believe was an attempt to sell the toddler for ₦2 million.
The arrests followed a swift police investigation launched after the management of Babura General Hospital reported the mysterious disappearance of the child from the hospital’s paediatric ward.
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The development was disclosed in a statement issued on Thursday by the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), SP Lawan Shiisu Adam, who confirmed that officers immediately commenced a coordinated operation to locate the missing child and identify those responsible.
According to the police, investigations led to the arrest of a female suspect, Khadija Aliyu, who was found in possession of the missing toddler. Further investigation resulted in the arrest of Sadik Sale Yahaya, a nurse at the hospital, who is alleged to have conspired with the woman in carrying out the crime.
During interrogation, police said Khadija Aliyu allegedly confessed to taking the child to an orphanage in Kaduna State, where she reportedly attempted to sell the toddler for ₦2,000,000.
The police have not disclosed whether the alleged transaction was completed, but confirmed that both suspects remain in custody while detectives continue their investigation to determine whether other individuals were involved in the suspected child trafficking network.
The Command also assured the public that the child is safe and will be reunited with the family after all necessary legal and investigative procedures have been concluded.
The incident has generated widespread public concern, with child protection advocates and residents calling for increased security measures in hospitals and other public institutions where children are particularly vulnerable.
The Jigawa State Police Command urged parents and guardians to remain vigilant at healthcare facilities, markets, and other crowded public places, emphasizing that constant supervision of children is essential in preventing abduction and trafficking.
Authorities reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring that all those connected to the alleged crime are identified and prosecuted in accordance with the law.
(DEMOCRACY NEWSLINE NEWSPAPER 7TH AUGUST, 2026)
