The Edo State Government, through the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, has uncovered an alleged adoption scam after shutting down an illegal orphanage identified as Uwadia Children Home in Afuze, Owan East Local Government Area.
The operation also led to the arrest of the proprietress, Mrs Grace Efe Uwadia, who has been handed over to police authorities in Benin City for further investigation and possible prosecution.
According to state officials, the case began after a man identified as Monday Akpaduma reportedly approached the ministry to complain about suspicious demands during an adoption process.
He alleged that he first paid ₦250,000 as a processing fee to adopt a child through the orphanage.
The man further claimed he was later asked to pay an additional ₦1 million before the child could be released to him.
After delays, he was allegedly informed that the adoption fee had risen to ₦2 million, with claims that the increase came from the ministry.
Officials said the explanation raised suspicion and prompted the complainant to verify the process directly with government authorities.
The Commissioner for Women Affairs said an internal investigation was immediately launched and allegedly discovered that documents presented by the complainant were fake.
According to the ministry, the papers did not originate from the government, even though they were issued using an old ministry letterhead.
Further claims also linked a staff member in the Social Welfare Department of Owan East Local Government to the alleged scheme.
Authorities said the individual was not present during the operation, but efforts are ongoing to locate and arrest anyone connected to the case.
The ministry also confirmed that children found at the orphanage have been evacuated to a safe location, while some are receiving medical attention.
The Edo State Government said it has zero tolerance for fraud, exploitation, or illegal dealings involving vulnerable children.
Residents were advised to verify all adoption processes directly with the ministry and report suspicious activities.
Investigations into the matter are continuing.
See pictures below:
