FIC Report (Edo State) – The Zonal Commander, Benin Zonal Command, National Agency For The Prohibition Of Trafficking In Persons (NAPTIP) has solicited for the support of the Federal Ministry of Information and Culture in eradicating human trafficking in Nigeria.
The request was made when the Zonal Commander led a team of senior officers of the Agency to the Federal Information Centre, Benin City.
He acknowledged with appreciation, the cordial working relationship that has existed between his Agency and the Federal Ministry of Information and Culture and requested for more assistance in sensitizing the public on the ills of human trafficking.
Barr. Nwanwenne disclosed that the vision of his Agency is to transform Nigeria into a nation free from human trafficking and violence against person’s.
The Zonal Commander enumerated various efforts his organization has made to eradicate human trafficking in Edo State. He however expressed sadness that the menace has not abated because of ignorance on the side of the victims and the failure of people to change their mindset about their expected reward from the trade.
The NAPTIP boss also disclosed that his Agency has secured many convictions against human traffickers in courts while over 70 cases are pending .
Barr. Nwanwenne who admitted that boys are not exempted from being trafficked however submitted that his organization concentrates more on the female gender because they are more affected by the illicit business.
He also revealed at the interactive session between his team and his host, that as part of efforts to eradicate human trafficking in Nigeria, NAPTIP has reached a partnership agreement with the management of Facebook. This partnership he said will be effective in his organization ‘s fight against the dehumanizing act.
He commended the Oba of Benin Kingdom, His Royal Majesty Oba Ewuare 11, for his contribution to the fight against human trafficking, adding that the act is a global menace that should not be left for NAPTIP to tackle alone.
In his response, Head, FIC, Benin, Comrade Besiru Enakhimion, pledged the support of his organization to the visitors. He advised NAPTIP to liaise with the traditional rulers and religious bodies for support. He also advocated the need for special courts to be constituted to handle cases on human trafficking and ensure quick judgement on such cases.
The Benin Zonal Command of NAPTIP comprises Edo, Delta and Bayelsa States.
BY DANIEL EJODAMEN,
FIC, BENIN.
