Key Points
- Nigeria applauds Ghana for rescuing 219 Nigerians trafficked for cybercrimes.
- Victims were found in dark rooms, forced into illegal activities.
- Collaborative efforts between Ghana and Nigeria are essential to combat trafficking.
The Nigerian government has praised the Ghanaian authorities for rescuing 219 Nigerians trafficked into the country. The victims were trapped in forced labor, particularly in cybercrime.
They were confined in rooms for weeks, living under appalling conditions. The rescue operation was carried out by Ghana’s Economic and Organised Crimes Office (EOCO).
This intervention underscores the importance of international cooperation to address human trafficking.
Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, Nigeria’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, expressed gratitude for the swift response.
Speaking at EOCO in Accra, she highlighted the inhumane nature of human trafficking, calling it modern slavery. She reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to providing skills to its youth to prevent them from falling into such exploitation.
Victims rescued from abusive conditions
The Nigerian High Commission in Ghana alerted officials about the victims’ dire situation. The individuals had been confined to dark rooms for weeks. Many of them hadn’t seen daylight for extended periods.
Some victims displayed visible signs of abuse, with some suffering broken limbs and lacerations. These young men had been promised jobs but were instead forced to engage in cybercrime.
Ambassador Odumegwu-Ojukwu said the victims were fortunate to escape, stressing that many others remain trapped in similar conditions worldwide. She urged the victims to take advantage of their second chance and access Nigeria’s rehabilitation programs.
Collaboration between Ghana and Nigeria strengthens trafficking fight
The joint efforts of Nigeria and Ghana in rescuing these victims show the power of collaboration. Ghana’s EOCO Executive Director, Mr. Bashiru Dapilah, confirmed that the operation was based on shared intelligence.
He emphasized the need for continued cooperation between both countries to combat human trafficking. The authorities arrested the estate owner who had allegedly facilitated the trafficking operation.
Ambassador Dayo Adeoye of the Nigerian High Commission in Ghana also stressed the importance of sensitizing the public about trafficking. He confirmed that the rescued victims would soon return to Nigeria for rehabilitation.
Adeoye expressed confidence that with continued efforts, the two countries could significantly reduce human trafficking.
