Ex-Senate Deputy President Ike Ekweremadu and Wife Arrested Over Organ Harvesting Allegations
Ike Ekweremadu, 60, and his wife Beatrice Nwanneka Ekweremadu, 55, faced Uxbridge Magistrates’ Court in west London on Thursday. Both deny charges after being accused of conspiring to arrange the travel of a 15-year-old boy for exploitation, linked to organ harvesting.
Teen Taken Into Custody as Police Investigate
The alleged victim, a 15-year-old boy, is currently in police custody. The Metropolitan Police confirmed various agencies are supporting him. The Ekweremadus, though residents of Nigeria, have family ties in London, according to court documents.
The couple answered “Nigeria” when asked their address. Prosecutors revealed they must obtain the UK Attorney General’s consent to continue, citing jurisdiction issues. Court heard that most offences reportedly occurred on UK soil. The Ekweremadus were arrested two days ago and remain in custody. Their next court date is July 7.
High-Profile Politician with Tarnished Reputation
Ike Ekweremadu is no ordinary defendant. The barrister and politician served three terms as Senate Deputy President from 2007 to 2019 and has been a senator since 2003, representing the opposition People’s Democratic Party (PDP). Recently, he was named a visiting professor at the University of Lincoln.
The university stated, “Visiting professors are frequently, as in this case, non-resident, unpaid, and act in an advisory role.” They added: “We are deeply concerned about the nature of these allegations but cannot comment further due to the ongoing police investigation.”
Police Probe Organ Harvesting and Modern Slavery Claims
The Metropolitan Police’s Specialist Crime Team launched the probe after being tipped off about possible modern-day slavery offences. Organ harvesting involves forcibly removing body parts, often for commercial gain.
This high-profile case shines a spotlight on the dark world of exploitation linked to human trafficking. The investigation continues as more details emerge.
