Edo Woman Arrested for N2 Million Adoption Scam at Illegal Orphanage

Authorities in Edo State have apprehended Grace Uwadia for her alleged involvement in running an illegal orphanage, 'Uwadia Children Home,' and perpetrating an adoption scam. The arrest, confirmed by the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Euginia Abdallah, followed a formal complaint from a victim, Monday Akpaduma. Akpaduma reported that after paying N250,000 for adoption processing, Uwadia later demanded an exorbitant N2 million, raising his suspicions. This incident highlights a disturbing trend of exploitation within vulnerable communities. An internal investigation by the ministry uncovered that the documents provided by Akpaduma were fraudulent, despite being issued on an official letterhead. Suspicion has fallen on a staff member of the Social Welfare Department in the Owan East Local Government Council, who is believed to have colluded with the illegal orphanage. While this individual evaded arrest during the operation, efforts are underway to apprehend them. The Edo State Government has pledged to bring all individuals connected to this illegal operation to justice, emphasizing their commitment to protecting children and upholding ethical adoption practices. The proprietor of the illegal orphanage has been handed over to the state police command for further investigation and prosecution, signaling a firm stance against such fraudulent activities.

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After prolonged delays, he was allegedly informed that the adoption fee had been increased to N2m by the ministry, a claim that raised his suspicion and prompted him to report directly to the ministry.