Taraba, NAPTIP Intercept Six Persons Allegedly Being Trafficked to Ibadan
JALINGO — The Taraba State Government, in collaboration with the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), has intercepted six persons allegedly being transported from Jalingo to Ibadan, Oyo State.
The intervention took place at Owoniyi Motor Park in Jalingo, where a 52-year-old man identified as Nelson Obadiah, a native of Adamawa State, was arrested in connection with the suspected trafficking operation.
The Taraba State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Child Development, Mrs Mary Sinjen, disclosed this on Wednesday while briefing journalists in Jalingo.
She identified the six persons intercepted as Abigail Yabo, 20; Faith Amos, 11; Paulina Ishaya, nine; Jinko Sunday, 10; Rose Danjuma, 10; and Maryam Istifanus, eight.
Sinjen said the intervention underscored the importance of vigilance in preventing the movement of children and other vulnerable persons under circumstances that could expose them to exploitation and abuse.
She stressed that children must not be subjected to situations where they could be exploited, emphasising their right to safety, dignity, protection and opportunities to develop.
The commissioner commended Governor Agbu Kefas for his administration’s support for initiatives aimed at combating human trafficking and protecting vulnerable persons in the state.
She also acknowledged the efforts of the governor’s wife, Mrs Agyin Kefas, particularly her advocacy and activities focused on the welfare and protection of children.
Sinjen further praised NAPTIP, the Nigeria Police Force, other security agencies and child-protection stakeholders for their cooperation and vigilance, which she said contributed to the successful interception.
However, the commissioner noted that tackling human trafficking requires more than arrests, stressing the importance of sustained prevention, public awareness and cooperation among relevant institutions.
She called for stronger collaboration between government agencies, security organisations, traditional and religious leaders, communities, civil society groups and other child-protection actors.
According to her, such cooperation would help authorities identify trafficking networks, protect victims and ensure that suspected perpetrators are subjected to due process of law.
The commissioner assured that the Ministry of Women Affairs and Child Development would continue to work with NAPTIP and other relevant agencies to identify trafficking activities, protect vulnerable persons and support efforts to bring those responsible to justice.
She also urged parents and guardians to pay close attention to the welfare and movements of children under their care, particularly when such movements involve unfamiliar individuals or destinations.
Sinjen encouraged members of the public to report suspicious recruitment, transportation or movement of children to the appropriate authorities, describing public vigilance as a critical component of efforts to prevent trafficking.
Reaffirming the state government’s position against human trafficking, the commissioner said: “We will not look away. We will not remain silent. We will not allow our children to be trafficked.”
She said the state government’s partnership with NAPTIP, security agencies and other stakeholders would continue as part of efforts to prevent trafficking, protect victims and strengthen the fight against exploitation of children and other vulnerable persons.
The suspect remains an alleged trafficker, and the circumstances surrounding the intended movement of the six persons are subject to investigation by the relevant authorities.
