95% of trafficked women are from Edo, Catholic women cry out

Women under the aegis of Africa Faith and Justice Network Nigeria (AFJNN) have called on traditional rulers in Edo State to intensify campaign against illegal migration and trafficking in persons in their various domains.

The group advised the youths to take advantage of their God-given talents and acquire the necessary skills for self-empowerment.

The group’s Coordinator, Rev. Sister Eucharia Madueke, spoke during visits to the palace of Onogie of Ujeogba, HRH Izuware 1, Solomon Ogieaga; Odionware of Ugbogui, Pa Uwaifo Osemwengie; and the Onogie of Ogwa, HRH Zaiki Ehizogie 11.

She said they decided to embark on the campaign following alarming statistics indicating that 95 percent of Nigerians trafficked to Libya, Italy and other parts of Europe were from Edo, saying that Ishans and Binis form the bulk of those who are being trafficked.

She appealed to the traditional rulers to use their positions to clamp down on agents and other individuals who indulge in trafficking of under-aged girls in their various domains.

On her part, Resource Person, Anti -Human Trafficking, Women and Children Protection Unit, State Criminal Investigation Department(CID) Sergt Justina Idiata said the police had made several arrests of suspected persons including native doctors, parents and relations who played a role in the process of trafficking the under-aged girls who often ended up as sex slaves abroad

Responding, the Onogie of Ujeogba, Solomon Ogieaga, who blamed the surge in human trafficking on parental failure, called on government at all levels to create the right environment for its citizens to engage in businesses.