Anambra Condemns Alleged Trafficking Of 35 Minors, Orders Full Investigation

The Anambra State Government has condemned the alleged trafficking and sexual exploitation of 35 underage children reportedly found in a brothel in Aguleri.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, the state Commissioner for Information, Law Mefor, described the development as disturbing and unacceptable.

The government directed relevant security agencies to immediately investigate the allegation, establish the facts, and rescue any affected minors.

“Anambra State abhors, condemns, and will not tolerate any form of child trafficking, sexual exploitation, or abuse of minors under any circumstance,” Mefor said.

He noted that the alleged acts constitute a grave violation of Nigeria’s laws, including the Child Rights Act and the Trafficking in Persons (Prohibition) Enforcement and Administration Act.

“These laws criminalise all forms of child trafficking, sexual exploitation, and forced prostitution, and prescribe severe penalties for offenders,” he said.

Stressing its move to apply the full weight of the law on the culprits, the state government ordered that any facility linked to the alleged crime be sealed in the interest of public safety.

“Relevant security and regulatory authorities have been directed to identify and prosecute all individuals or syndicates involved, while ensuring the rescue and protection of any affected children,” he stated.

He warned operators involved in child exploitation that Anambra would not provide a haven for such crimes.

“Those behind this modern-day travesty should be assured that the long arm of the law is actively searching for them and they will face the full wrath of the law,” Mefor said.

The commissioner assured residents that the safety of children and other vulnerable persons remained a priority of the state government, urging the public to cooperate with security agencies.

“If you see something, say something. Members of the public are encouraged to report suspicious activities by calling 5111, with confidentiality guaranteed,” he added.

THE WHISTLER reported the arrest of a female suspect, Ifeoma Anthony, 37, along Emma Pigin Road, Awkuzu, where the underage girls were kept.

According to the police, the operation was triggered by a distress report received through the Command Control Room from relatives of three missing children.

SP Ikenga said the victims: Divine Mbam, 14, Nwagu Favour, 15, and Oke Blessing, 18, were abducted on September 26, in Ebonyi State and taken to an unknown location before being sighted in Aguleri.

“Preliminary investigations revealed that the building where the girls were housed is allegedly used for child trafficking and prostitution and is owned by one Ngozi Nnanyelugo, aged 45, who is currently at large,” Ikenga stated.

The Command said efforts were ongoing to apprehend the principal suspect and other accomplices linked to the operation.