By Orekoya Peter Oreoluwa (IT Student, Ekiti State University)
In a bid to tackle human trafficking in Nigeria, the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) has joined forces with the Ondo State Government and Expertise France.
The Ondo State Government has generously provided office space in Akure to bolster NAPTIP’s activities, including investigations, prosecutions, and victim rehabilitation.
This collaboration aims to enhance NAPTIP’s capacity in combating human trafficking, with the renovated office serving as a crucial resource in the fight against this crime.
The country project manager emphasized that the office renovation aims to create a conducive working environment for NAPTIP operatives.
Mr. Chinedu Ajaegbu, the Zonal Commander of the agency, highlighted that the partnership will strengthen NAPTIP’s presence in Ondo State and facilitate more effective collaboration with authorities and stakeholders.
Collaboration with international partners, local government, and other stakeholders is crucial in safeguarding society’s most vulnerable members.
In a recent development, eight defendants, accused of human trafficking-related offenses, were granted bail by a judge after pleading not guilty.
The charges against them, including false imprisonment and conspiracy, are punishable under Section 13(2)(c) of the Act. The court mandated each defendant to post a bail bond of N2 million with two sureties of similar amounts.
This ruling signifies progress in holding perpetrators of human trafficking accountable and underscores the importance of upholding due process and ensuring fair trials for all accused individuals.
