Fourteen children allegedly trafficked to Anambra State from their homes in Adamawa State have finally returned to their families.
The children, aged between four and nine, were handed over in Yola at a ceremony led by Deputy Governor Prof Kaletapwa Farauta.
“These children have gone through unimaginable experiences,” Farauta said. “We have provided them with medical care, psychological support, and rehabilitation.”
She described child trafficking as a “monster ravaging the nation”, and said Adamawa had now joined the map of this dark trade.
Trafficker Used Snacks to Lure Victims
The suspect, Ngozi Abdulwahab, allegedly operated from a small provision shop in Jambutu ward, Yola North. She lured children with snacks and gifts.
She then trafficked them to the South East, where each child was sold for between ₦800,000 and ₦1.7 million.
Security agencies, including the Police, DSS, and NSCDC, launched a joint operation in July after reports of missing children. The suspect was arrested and the children rescued.
One child, initially hospitalised, joined the others after recovery, bringing the total to 14.
“Adamawa State is the wrong place for human traffickers,” Farauta declared. “We shall flush them out, dismantle their networks, and prosecute them to the fullest extent of the law.”
She said the suspect would face charges under the Trafficking in Persons Act (2015), the Adamawa Child Protection Law (2008), and other relevant laws.
Families Receive Support, Government Promises Vigilance
Each family received ₦100,000 cash, food, and non-food items to help them recover and start small businesses.
Farauta directed the Ministry of Women’s Affairs and local welfare departments to monitor the children’s reintegration.
“This government is fully committed to protecting the future of every child in Adamawa State,” she said. “We will not rest until we put an end to child trafficking and ensure justice for the victims.”
She advised parents to be more vigilant and warned against sending children under 10 on errands or to school unaccompanied.
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