Fourteen children trafficked from Adamawa State to Anambra State have been rescued and reunited with their families in a major operation against child trafficking.
The children, aged between four and nine, were formally handed over to their parents yesterday at the office of the Deputy Governor, Prof. Kaletapwa Farauta.
Farauta, who described child trafficking as a “monster plaguing the nation,” regretted that the crime had dragged Adamawa into negative publicity. She explained that the rescue was based on intelligence received in July, which led to the arrest of a suspect, Ngozi Abdulwahab.
Abdulwahab was alleged to have enticed the victims with snacks and gifts at her provision shop in Jambutu ward, Yola North Local Government Area, before trafficking them to the South East, where they were reportedly sold for between ₦800,000 and ₦1.7 million each.
“These children have gone through unimaginable experiences,” the Deputy Governor said. “We have provided them with medical care, psychological support, and rehabilitation. Today, they are being reunited with their loved ones and returned to the comfort of their homes.”
She assured that the suspect would be prosecuted and reiterated the government’s determination to dismantle trafficking networks.
As part of the reintegration process, each family received N100,000 in financial support, along with food and non-food relief items. Farauta also announced plans to assist the families in starting small-scale businesses to improve their livelihoods.
To safeguard the children’s welfare, she directed the Ministry of Women’s Affairs and local welfare departments to conduct regular follow-up visits.
“This government is fully committed to protecting the future of every child in Adamawa State,” she added. “We will not rest until we put an end to child trafficking and ensure justice for the victims.”