Human trafficking: We’ve received not less than 100 victims, 70 suspects – Ogun NAPTIP
Ogun State Sees Rising Human Trafficking Cases, NAPTIP Commander Reports
Abeokuta, Ogun State – Abosede Jimoh, the Ogun State Commander of the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), has expressed concern over the increasing incidence of human trafficking in the region. Since late 2023, NAPTIP has recorded approximately 100 victims and apprehended 70 suspects.
During a sensitization program organized by the Ogun State chapter of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) and the Police Officers Wives Association, Jimoh highlighted the troubling conditions many victims face. She reported that individuals are often deceived with job offers, only to fall prey to sexual exploitation. Alarmingly, some rescued minors have reported being subjected to sexual acts with multiple men daily, and in some cases, even with animals.
Jimoh addressed attendees at the event held at Lafenwa Market on Wednesday, revealing that, in addition to minors, women are increasingly vulnerable to trafficking, with some being transported to destinations such as Cairo.
“When these victims come to us, we provide counseling and medical checkups, and we work towards their empowerment and reintegration into society,” Jimoh said.
She detailed how trafficking operates, stating that victims are often moved from rural areas to urban centers and sometimes internationally. “They are not only made to sleep with men; some are forced to engage in acts with animals,” she added.
Jimoh also informed the audience that NAPTIP has recorded nine trafficking cases currently in court, with three convictions secured thus far, while other cases remain under investigation.
Earlier in the event, Mrs. Olubusola Lanre-Ogunlowo, Chairperson of the Police Officers Wives Association (POWA) in Ogun State, emphasized the group’s commitment to empowering women and youth through skills training and development. She urged community members to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the appropriate authorities.
