Akpako Rescue: Breaking the Chains of Human Trafficking in Edo State - Restoring Hope,Dignity

Akpako Rescue: Breaking the Chains of Human Trafficking in Edo State – Restoring Hope, Dignity

By Adesuwa Ehimuan

The Office of the First Lady of Edo State, in collaboration with the Migration Agency Edo State has successfully rescued a 20-year-old victim of human trafficking, Miss Okuobo Iwinosa.

The young girl was trafficked to Burkina Faso at the tender age of 15, under the guise of being taken to the United Arab Emirate, Dubia to secure a better life.
She arrived at the Benin Airport yesterday in the company pf the Director General, Migration Agency, Mr Lucky Agazuma and was formally received at an event held at the new festival hall, Government House, Benin City.

In his remarks , the state governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo who was ably represented by the Attorney general and Commissioner of Justice Edo State, Hon. Samson Osagie PhD ” We acknowledge the resilience of survivors, Edo State Government is working to combat human trafficking. Our focus is clear: restoring hope, dignity and empowerment to those affected. From Victim to Survivor, Okuobo Iwinosa a true life story of a survivor.”

“Governor Monday Okpebholo will provide support and resources to all survivors, empowering them to rebuild their lives and restore their dignity and be reintegrated with their family and the society.

“We stand with those who have been affected by human trafficking. We acknowledge their strength and resilience, and we are committed to providing the necessary support and resources to help them heal and thrive in Edo State.”

The Coordinator, Office of the First Lady, Mrs. Edesili Anani in her heartfelt message expressed delight on the successful rescue and emphasized that Miss Okuobo Iwinosa’s story serves as a testament to resilience. The Office of the First Lady equally pledged to provide Miss Iwinosa with the necessary care and support to help her recover from her ordeal.

Mrs. Anani also used the opportunity to caution parents against putting undue pressure on their young children, thereby thrusting family responsibilities onto their tender shoulders. She stressed that Miss Iwinosa’s story should serve as a warning, highlighting the dangers of human trafficking and the importance of protecting children from exploitation.

The Coordinator revealed plans to utilize Miss Iwinosa’s experience to empower her as an advocate against human trafficking. This initiative aims to raise awareness about the scourge of human trafficking and prevent others from falling prey to similar circumstances.

The Director General, Edo State Migration Agency, Hon Lucky Agazuma said , Miss Iwinosa was subjected to unimaginable hardships, including being forced into sex work, where she was desecrated and sold into slavery. The traumatic experience left her depressed and struggling to cope with the harsh conditions. I
n desperate cry for help, Miss Okuobo Iwinosa reached out to a TikTok user, pleading for rescue.

Fortunately, the video caught the attention of Edo State Governor, Governor Monday Okpebholo
who promptly mandated the DG Edo State Migration Agency to rescue the young girl and bring her back to Edo State. The Governor’s swift action underscores his administration’s commitment to combating human trafficking.

The rescue of Miss Okuobo Iwinosa is a significant victory in the fight against human trafficking, and the Edo State Government’s efforts demonstrate its unwavering commitment to protecting its citizens, particularly vulnerable young women and children.