Egume Monarch Raises Alarm Over Alleged Kidney Sales by Youths for Motorcycles

A chilling warning has come from the palace in Egume, Kogi State, as the Onu Egume/Okura District Head, HRH Ochimana Simon Anu, raised the alarm over allegations that some youths in his domain are selling their kidneys to raise money for motorcycles and other luxury items.

Platforms Africa reports that the monarch made the disclosure on Monday at the Onu Egume Palace, describing the alleged practice as “dangerous and unacceptable.”

According to a statement signed by Momoh Idris Ospaca, Media Custodian of the Onu Egume Palace, Anu expressed concern over what he described as a growing desperation among some young people to acquire wealth without engaging in legitimate work.

The monarch urged youths to reject the pursuit of quick wealth at the expense of their health, lives and future.

Of particular concern, he alleged, is the presence of individuals operating as agents for kidney buyers within the community. He warned such persons to leave Egume or face consequences.

«“Anyone allegedly operating as agents for kidney buyers within his domain should leave the community or face consequences,” Anu declared.»

In response to the allegations, the traditional ruler ordered the immediate establishment of a security committee to investigate reports of sudden wealth among youths, particularly underage persons.

The committee is expected to scrutinise cases involving young people who have recently acquired expensive TVS and Hajue Rubber motorcycles reportedly costing between N1m and N2m, and determine the sources of the funds.

According to the palace, the investigation will also seek to establish whether criminal or exploitative activities are connected to the sudden acquisition of such wealth.

The monarch expressed concern that the growing pressure to display material wealth could be exposing young people to dangerous schemes and exploitation.

He urged youths to pursue skill acquisition, legitimate businesses and long-term financial planning, stressing that human life and health must never be sacrificed for material possessions.

The traditional ruler also warned that anyone found culpable of participating in kidney sales or related activities would face sanctions in accordance with the traditional laws and customs of the community.

Parents, elders, community leaders and residents were equally urged to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities that could place young people at risk.

Anu further cautioned youths against being deceived by the flashy lifestyles of their peers or the temptation of making quick money.

“Do not be carried away by the apparent wealth of others or the attraction of quick money,” he warned.

The monarch subsequently reaffirmed his condemnation of the alleged kidney-selling activities and directed that any such transactions should stop immediately.

As the newly constituted security committee begins its investigation, the allegations have raised serious questions about the pressures driving some young people into desperate attempts to acquire wealth—and whether the pursuit of a motorcycle or a flashy lifestyle could be putting their very lives at risk.