Dabiri-Erewa leads charge against human trafficking during emotional rescue of Nigerian girls in Ghana

In a resolute stand against human trafficking, Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairman/CEO of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), led a high-profile delegation to Ghana, following the rescue of ten Nigerian girls trafficked for prostitution under the guise of being salesgirls. The girls, who had been lured to Ghana with false promises, were discovered and saved through the collaborative efforts of the Nigerians in Diaspora Organisation (NIDO) in Ghana.

During her visit, Dabiri-Erewa vehemently condemned modern-day slavery, calling for a relentless war against human traffickers.

“We must declare a war against human traffickers,” she proclaimed, stressing the necessity for a lasting solution to this pervasive issue. She urged Nigerian parents to remain vigilant about their children’s whereabouts and to question the intentions of relatives or friends who offer to take them away.

The NiDCOM chief’s visit was bolstered by significant support from both Nigerian and Ghanaian officials. Among those present were representatives of the Imo State Governor, led by the Deputy Speaker of the Imo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Amara Iwuanyanwu, and the Commissioner for Women Affairs of Imo State, Mrs. Nkechinyere Ugwu. The Eze Igbo of Ghana, Chukwudi Ihenetu, and Chief Calistus Elozieuwa, Chairman BOT of NIDO Ghana, also played pivotal roles in the rescue operation.

Ambassador Adeoye Ifedayo, the Acting Nigerian High Commissioner to Ghana, lauded NIDO Ghana’s swift actions and emphasized the importance of sustained efforts to combat human trafficking. He pledged the High Commission’s full support in this fight.

The delegation also included officials from the Plateau State Government, who pledged comprehensive rehabilitation for the rescued girls. This promise was echoed by the Imo State delegation, reiterating the government’s commitment to the welfare of its citizens.

The emotional meeting with the rescued girls revealed their anticipation of returning home. The girls will be handed over to the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) for counseling and rehabilitation in their respective states.

The incident garnered widespread attention after NIDO Ghana alerted NiDCOM, leading to a swift intervention. The Ghanaian Police, who cooperated fully with the rescue mission, assured their continued support in eradicating human trafficking.

In her final remarks, Dabiri-Erewa called for a unified approach to naming, shaming, and prosecuting traffickers, emphasizing that the battle against human trafficking requires a collective effort from all sectors of society.