Organ transplantation is one of the life-changing and life-saving medical advancements in the world today. However, as a result of the imbalance in the demand and supply of organs for transplant, there is an emergence of illegal transplants. This study underpins the ethical principles guiding organ transplants, beneficence, non-maleficence, and autonomy. It also examines the different cases where such illegal transplants have taken place and explores doctors’ activities, aiding the continuity of the crime. This work underscores the various legal frameworks important in combating illegal transplants and prosecuting the medical practitioners involved. Using a strictly doctrinal approach, it explores a variety of case law, online journals, articles, and newspapers, as well as various legal frameworks, both local and international, for combating illegal transplants and prosecuting medical practitioners engaged in these cases. This study reveals challenges to prosecuting medical practitioners in illegal transplant cases. There is a need for an amendment of the Nigerian Laws to address the contemporary realities of society and sensitization of patients and donors on the concept of consent, and their obligation to report any suspicious activity observed while receiving treatment. This work finally emphasizes the role of the government, medical practitioners, and patients in addressing this problem and the need for cooperation amongst them to combat it.
