The Ogun State Commander of the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), Abosede Jimoh, has reported a significant increase in human trafficking cases within the state, revealing that her office has handled at least 100 victims and 70 suspects since late 2023.
Speaking at a sensitization programme in Abeokuta, Jimoh described sophisticated criminal networks luring victims under the pretence of employment, primarily for sexual exploitation. She provided harrowing details, stating that some rescued underage victims reported being forced to engage with as many as 15 to 20 men daily, and in some instances, with animals. The event, held at Lafenwa Market, was organised by the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) in partnership with the Police Officers Wives Association (POWA).
Jimoh disclosed a disturbing trend where women, in addition to minors, are now being trafficked from Ogun State to destinations including Cairo. She outlined NAPTIP’s standard protocol for rescued victims, which includes counselling, medical examination, empowerment initiatives, and eventual reintegration into society.
“Victims are moved from villages to rural areas, then to urban centres, and sometimes abroad, all for sexual exploitation,” Jimoh said. “We are receiving such cases daily. Currently, we have nine cases in court, with three prosecutions completed and convictions secured; the remainder are under investigation.”
Earlier, the Chairperson of POWA’s Ogun State Chapter, Mrs. Olubusola Lanre-Ogunlowo, reaffirmed the association’s dedication to women and youth empowerment through skills training. She urged market women and community members to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious activities to relevant authorities.
The collaboration between NAPTIP, journalist groups, and POWA underscores a multi-stakeholder approach to combating trafficking. The sensitisation programme aims to raise public awareness in high-risk areas like markets, equipping citizens to identify and report trafficking indicators. With trafficking routes becoming more complex and extending internationally, authorities stress that community awareness is a critical line of defence against a crime that devastates lives and undermines societal development.
