Despite initial controversies over comments by the Chairman/CEO of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, Hon. Abike Dabiri Erewa, regarding drug barons and human traffickers, the recent arrival of nine trafficked teenage Nigerian girls in Lagos has been met with widespread relief and applause.
The girls arrived at Muritala Mohammed International Airport, Lagos, after a successful rescue mission led by Hon. Dabiri Erewa. She was accompanied by representatives of the Imo State Governor, Rt. Hon. Chyna Amara Iwuanyanwu (Deputy Speaker of the Imo State House) and the Imo State Commissioner for Women Affairs, Mrs. Nkechinyere Ugwu.
Upon their arrival, the rescued girls were handed over to the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) and their respective states for rehabilitation and counselling. The alleged trafficker responsible for their plight has been arrested and charged in Ghana, marking a significant step in the fight against human trafficking.
In her remarks, Dabiri-Erewa emphasized the need for increased efforts to apprehend human traffickers, noting the comparative ease of catching drug couriers due to detection machines. “There must be a concerted effort to ensure human traffickers are exposed the way drug couriers are. Human trafficking is now an epidemic Nigeria must declare a war against,” she stated.
The rescue operation has garnered praise from many netizens, who commended the efforts of Dabiri-Erewa and other involved parties. Here are some reactions:
– One user expressed gratitude, saying, “A very big thank you, Madam Abike Dabiri, the good people of Nigerians in Diaspora, Ghana, and all who made the return of the trafficked girls possible. The role of the Federal Government is visible, hoping this sends a red signal to all human traffickers.”
– Another user highlighted the ongoing support Dabiri-Erewa receives despite criticism, writing, “Some people spend their entire life on this app insulting @abikedabiri. God bless you ma and everyone involved in the rescue of these poor teenage girls.”
– A comment from @femiogunleye9 suggested that the girls be returned to Imo State, urging local leaders to address the issue of prostitution. “Hope Uzodinmma needs a lot of sensitisation concerning the usage of Eastern girls as prostitutes. The rate at which prostitutes are being fashioned in the east is out of hand.”
– In a humorous response, Yooto @MarkYooto remarked, “No, Hope should find them jobs in Europe and America as he promised. Not Ghana. Lol.”
The successful rescue operation and subsequent reactions underscore the ongoing challenge of human trafficking in Nigeria and the need for continued vigilance and coordinated efforts to combat this grave issue.
