The President of the Nigerian community in Cote d’Ivoire, Emeka Michael Onwuchelu, has shed light on the alarming rate of human trafficking of under-age Nigerian girls in West Africa, saying that his team has so far rescued 962 girls who were trafficked from Nigeria to Cote D’Ivoire in the last three years.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
In a special interview, ‘Insight’ on NTA International, Onwuchelu has urged federal and state governments to take decisive actions, including developing a comprehensive strategy to combat human trafficking in the region.
He also called for increased support in the provision of basic needs of the rescued girls, as the current interventions by non-governmental organisations (NGO) are not sufficient.
According to Onwuchelu, the problem of trafficking underage girls persists, with approximately 10 to 12 minor girls being rescued every week.
He said most victims who are minors, some as young as 11, are lured from villages with the promise of employment, only to be subjected to harsh conditions and forced into prostitution in Cote D’Ivoire.
He said the traffickers, predominantly Nigerians, operate a complex network, transporting victims across borders with ease. The rescued girls often require medical attention, counselling and some basic necessities of life like food, shelter and clothing.