House of Representatives on Thursday called on the Federal Government to intensify efforts to halt the growing illegal harvesting and commercialization of human eggs in the country.
The House’s resolution was sequel to the motion by the member representing Demsa/Numan/Lamurde Federal Constituency of Adamawa State, Kwamoti Bitrus La’ori.
Presenting the motion, La’ori who is also the Chairman House Committee on Cooperation and Integration in Africa, noted that the commercialization of human eggs, particularly in the context of illegal harvesting, poses significant ethical, legal and health concerns globally.
According to him, the issue has gained prominence due to a growing demand for assisted reproduction amid insufficient regulations in the country.
He noted that Nigeria’s healthcare system, particularly as it concerns reproductive health, is still evolving.
La’ori stated that the situation, coupled with increasing infertility rates among couples seeking assisted reproductive treatments, has led to a flourishing market for human eggs.
The lawmaker, therefore, expressed concern that the demand for human eggs has led to exploitative practices among those in need of it. He pointed to such practices as illegal egg harvesting and commercialization. La’ori noted that these people often target vulnerable women, particularly poor teenagers unaware of the risks involved.
According to him, in 2021, Nigerian authorities discovered an illegal egg harvesting scheme in Lagos. Where a network of medical professionals and agents lured young women, mostly students or low-income earners, with the assurance of monetary rewards for their eggs.
La’ori stated that reportedly, the women received between N200,000 and N500,000. Or $120 to $300, for their participation in the scheme. According to him, this is below the international pricing standards.
The lawmaker also noted that a large number of women had little knowledge about the medical procedures, potential health risks, and ethical implications of egg donation. He noted that some experienced ovarian hyper stimulation syndrome (OHSS) and other serious health issues after harvest.
According to him, complications during an operation at a local clinic led to an investigation by the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP).
The lawmaker further expressed concern that in 2022, an Abuja-based fertility clinic was found involved in the illegal commercialization of human eggs to foreign clients. And the clinic was enrolling women under false claims of being part of legitimate egg donation programme.
La’ori pointed out that reports suggest the clinic’s online platform is inflating egg prices for international couples. Thereby, underscoring the need for robust regulatory frameworks to regulate fertility practices in the country.
He noted that the absence of comprehensive legislation governing reproductive health in Nigeria has
allowed these illegal activities to thrive.
The lawmaker, therefore, stated that while the National Health Act provides some guidelines for reproductive health, specific regulations regarding egg donation and commercialization are lacking.
La’ori lamented that due to the effects of the worsening economic situation in the country, this illegal practice has thrived. With many young women seeking financial relief falling prey to unscrupulous practitioners who exploit their desperation for financial relief. Thereby, ignoring the health risks associated with egg retrieval procedures. As well as the unethical commodification of human life and the psychological impact on donors.
In adopting the motion, the House urged the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Development, and the Ministry of Women Affairs to create support systems for women who have participated in egg donation. This is to help address health complications and psychological impacts on the victims.
The House also urged the Ministry of Health and Social Development, and the Ministry of Information and National Orientation to intensify public awareness on the development. They urged the Federal Government to initiate programmes focusing on the risks and ethical considerations of egg donation. This, they said would help to inform potential donors and discourage exploitation.
The House, therefore, mandated its Committee on Healthcare Services to investigate the spate of illegal egg donation. And also the practice of assisted reproductive health technologies in Nigeria.
The Committee is to recommend measures to prevent further incidents and report within four weeks for further legislative action.
source: Daily Post
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