Tension has gripped Ogbaku, in Mbaitoli of Imo State, after a woman was reportedly expelled from her community over allegations that she sold her sister-in-law’s young son for ₦800,000.
Residents said the decision to banish the woman was reached by traditional authorities and village leaders following what they described as a disturbing discovery that sparked outrage across the area.
According to community sources, the leadership convened an emergency meeting when details of the alleged transaction surfaced. After deliberations, the woman was declared persona non grata, a sanction that effectively prohibits her from living in or returning to the community.
A video that circulated on Thursday captured the moment she was escorted out by a crowd of villagers. In the footage, residents were seen chanting and expressing anger as she was led away, reflecting the depth of the community’s reaction to the allegation.
One of the elders, who spoke during the procession, explained that the action was taken to uphold the values and traditions of the land.
“We are banishing her from this community,” the leader stated. “She sold her sister-in-law’s son — the child of her brother’s wife — for ₦800,000. Because of this, we have decided she cannot remain among us.”
Community members described the alleged act as a grave violation of cultural norms and moral expectations, noting that such matters are treated with utmost seriousness under local customs.
While the village has enforced its traditional sanction, residents say the case may also attract the attention of law enforcement authorities, as child trafficking and related offences are criminal under Nigerian law. As of the time of filing this report, there has been no official confirmation from security agencies regarding an investigation.
The incident has since triggered conversations across Nigeria about child protection, community justice systems, and the role of traditional institutions in responding to alleged crimes.
Local leaders insist the banishment was meant to send a strong warning and to reaffirm the community’s stance against actions seen as endangering children.
