Newborn Abducted From Benue Hospital After Suspect Poses as Nurse to Steal Baby From Mother
A newborn baby boy has reportedly been abducted from a healthcare facility in Gboko Local Government Area of Benue State, raising concerns about child safeguarding and security procedures in maternity facilities.
The incident reportedly occurred in the early hours of Tuesday after the baby and his mother were moved to a ward for post-delivery care.
According to reports, the newborn initially failed to cry after birth, prompting a nurse on duty to intervene. He later responded and was described as stable before being taken with his mother to the ward.
While the mother was recovering, a woman allegedly approached her and identified herself as a nurse. She reportedly told the mother that the baby needed another examination before taking him towards the labour room.
The baby’s grandmother reportedly became suspicious and followed the woman, remaining near the entrance. However, the woman allegedly asked her to move away, assuring her that everything was fine. She subsequently disappeared with the newborn.
Nurses at the facility later reportedly said the woman was not a member of their staff.
The incident highlights the importance of strong safeguarding measures around newborns, particularly systems that verify staff identities and control who can remove a baby from a mother’s care.
Police spokesperson DSP Peter Aondongu confirmed the incident and said the case had been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department in Makurdi.
As investigations continue, the priority remains locating the newborn and ensuring accountability while strengthening safeguards that can prevent similar incidents in healthcare facilities.
