A 19-year-old Nigerian woman who was allegedly trafficked to Côte d’Ivoire has been rescued and safely returned to Nigeria after reportedly being stranded in the West African country.
The teenager, identified simply as Annabel, is from Ughelli, Delta State. According to reports, she was trafficked to Côte d’Ivoire under false pretences before allegedly being forced into prostitution.
Annabel reportedly told those who assisted in her rescue that she was abandoned by the woman who trafficked her after refusing to engage in prostitution. Left without shelter or support, she was said to have been found wandering the streets of Côte d’Ivoire.
Her plight attracted the attention of individuals who coordinated efforts to facilitate her return to Nigeria.
The rescue and repatriation were facilitated by Hon. Stella Erhuvwuoghene Okotete in collaboration with Hon. Jaro Movudu Egbo, Chairman of Ughelli North Local Government Area of Delta State.
Following her return, Annabel was reunited with her loved ones, bringing an end to the traumatic ordeal she reportedly endured abroad.
The incident has once again highlighted the dangers of human trafficking, particularly the exploitation of young Nigerians who are lured overseas with promises of better opportunities but often end up as victims of forced prostitution, abuse, and exploitation.
Authorities and anti-human trafficking advocates continue to urge young people to verify overseas job offers and migration opportunities through legitimate channels while encouraging members of the public to report suspected cases of human trafficking to the appropriate authorities.
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