The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) has launched an investigation into a disturbing viral video alleging that a woman in Edo State exploited her three-year-old son on a livestreaming platform for monetary gain.
The agency confirmed the development in a statement shared on its official X (formerly Twitter) page on Monday, describing the allegation as a serious case of child abuse and exploitation punishable under Nigerian law.
According to NAPTIP, its Cybersecurity Response Team has taken up the case as a matter of urgent priority, working to gather evidence and identify all individuals involved. The agency emphasized that the safety and protection of the child remain its top concern.
The case gained public attention after child rights advocate Justina Lawrence raised an alarm over the content, calling for immediate intervention from authorities.
She described the incident as abuse disguised as content creation, stressing that a minor was allegedly being exposed to inappropriate acts during livestream sessions in exchange for virtual gifts from viewers.
Lawrence urged the Edo State Government and relevant offices, including that of the First Lady, to act swiftly to ensure the child’s safety and bring those responsible to justice.
“This is not content creation; this is abuse happening in real time,” she said, emphasizing the urgency of protecting the child and preventing further harm.
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Reacting to the growing concerns, NAPTIP reiterated that the investigation is being conducted under the Trafficking in Persons (Prohibition) Enforcement and Administration Act, which criminalizes child exploitation and online abuse.
The agency also called on members of the public to report similar incidents through its official channels.
The development has sparked widespread outrage across social media, with many Nigerians demanding swift action and accountability.
Several users commended NAPTIP for its prompt response while also calling for stricter regulation of livestreaming platforms to prevent the exploitation of minors.
Child protection advocates have also warned about the risks associated with the monetisation of online content, noting that it can create opportunities for abuse, especially when vulnerable children are involved.
They stressed the need for stronger enforcement, increased awareness, and tighter digital safeguards to protect minors.
As investigations continue, authorities have assured the public that all necessary steps will be taken to secure justice and ensure the child is placed in a safe and protected environment.
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