In a heartwarming turn of events, the Nigeria Police Force has successfully recovered a newborn baby that was stolen earlier this week from a primary health centre in Ekiti State, bringing relief and joy to the affected family and the community at large.
The dramatic recovery was announced by the Ekiti State Police Command in a press briefing this afternoon. According to the spokesperson, the baby — who was stolen barely 24 hours after birth — was found safe and unharmed in a hideout in a neighbouring town, thanks to swift intelligence gathering and coordinated efforts by law enforcement.
The Shocking Incident
The newborn was reportedly taken from the maternity ward of a public health centre located in Ado-Ekiti, the state capital. The baby’s mother, who had gone through a successful delivery, had briefly stepped out with the nurse to complete discharge procedures when the unknown woman who had been posing as a relative abducted the infant and vanished.
The incident caused widespread panic and outrage both offline and on social media, with the public demanding urgent action. A missing child alert was issued, and the police began immediate investigations using surveillance footage, eyewitness accounts, and community intelligence.
How the Baby Was Found
Speaking to journalists, the Commissioner of Police, CP Adeniran Akinwale, confirmed that the suspect — a woman in her late 30s — was tracked down to a residence in Ikere-Ekiti where the baby was found in good health.
“We acted swiftly based on credible intelligence,” the CP stated. “Our officers moved in quietly and rescued the baby. She has since been reunited with her mother, who was overwhelmed with tears of joy.”
Medical officers at the Ekiti State Teaching Hospital have confirmed that the baby is stable and receiving care. The mother, too emotional to speak at first, later thanked the police and the entire community for their support, saying:
“I thought I had lost my baby forever. But God and the police brought her back to me. I will never forget this day.”
Public Praise for Police Efforts
The recovery has been met with widespread praise from Nigerians across the country. Citizens took to social media platforms like X and Instagram to celebrate the success of the operation.
One user wrote:
“This is the kind of news we love to see! God bless the Nigeria Police for acting fast and doing the right thing 👏❤️”
Another added:
“So glad this ended in joy. Let’s continue to be vigilant and protect our women and children, especially in hospitals.”
Suspect in Custody
The arrested suspect is now in police custody and will be facing charges related to child theft, impersonation, and endangering the life of a minor. Investigations are ongoing to determine if she is part of a larger child-trafficking ring.
Authorities Tighten Security
In response to the incident, the Ekiti State Ministry of Health has vowed to review security protocols at all health facilities in the state. Health Commissioner, Dr. Mojisola Odebunmi, announced that tighter surveillance, visitor registration, and ward access control will now be enforced in maternity and pediatric wards.
“We can’t take chances again,” she said. “This was a near-tragedy, and we must act now to prevent a recurrence.”
A Happy Ending
While baby theft is a serious and tragic crime that leaves lasting trauma, this case ended with a rare and joyful outcome. Thanks to the fast action of the Nigeria Police and the power of community vigilance, a mother’s worst nightmare was turned into a miracle.
As the recovered baby sleeps safely tonight in her mother’s arms, Nigerians everywhere are reminded that hope, action, and unity can make a difference.
🎉👏 Kudos to the Nigeria Police! 👏🎉
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