FG vows to go after kidney buyers, sellers, doctors, hospitals involved in Abuja organ trafficking

Individuals involved could face imprisonment for a minimum of two years, a fine of N1,000,000, or both

The Nigerian Government, in response to a recent investigative report by Daily Trust revealing kidney trafficking in Abuja, has pledged to take strict actions against perpetrators.

Patricia Deworitshe, Director (Media and Public Relations) for the Federal Ministry of Health, emphasized that individuals involved could face imprisonment for a minimum of two years, a fine of N1,000,000, or both, as stated in a press release.

The report shed light on the involvement of private hospitals in the illegal removal of kidneys from minors, exchanging them for N1 million.

Social media outcry from concerned Nigerians urged the government to apprehend those responsible.

Expressing sympathy for the victims, the minister strongly condemned these actions. The ministry has also enhanced its regulatory standards and practices to prevent such illicit activities in the country’s health sector.

The statement reads: “The Federal Ministry of Health has taken note of a report published by the Daily Trust Newspaper titled “Inside Abuja’s Kidney Market where the Rich prey on the Poor in the FCT”.

“The Ministry is deeply concerned about and wholly condemns the heinous and inhumane act of kidney trafficking exposed in that report.

“We sympathize with those affected and wish to inform the public that the National Health Act (NHA) 2014 Sections 51-56 prohibits this illegal practice. Individuals who contravene or fail to comply with these provisions are committing an offense and are liable to a fine of N1,000,000 or imprisonment of not less than two years, or both. Both buyers and sellers engaging in this illegal trade, as well as medical practitioners and facilities where the act is performed, will face the full consequences of the law.

“Donating kidneys should only be carried out based on informed consent of the donor and medical advice, with privileged information about the process to save lives. The Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN) is investigating allegations of medical practitioners engaged in such activities.

“While the Federal Ministry of Health is dedicated to improving regulatory standards and practices to enhance an effective and efficient healthcare system in line with the renewed hope agenda, we advise the public not to engage in such illegal practices.”

“If you have any information that can lead to the arrest of these perpetrators, please contact the Federal Ministry of Health at 08033228978,” the statement added.

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