In a significant legal victory against human trafficking, a couple from Benin, Edo State, has been sentenced to five years in prison. The Benin High Court reached this decision on July 16, 2024, convicting Adesuwa Otabor, 33, and Otabor Idahosa, 39, for their roles in trafficking a woman to Dubai for prostitution.

The case was brought to light by the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), which has been actively working to combat human trafficking in Nigeria. On July 24, 2024, NAPTIP announced the sentencing, with Mr. Ganiu Aganran, the Coordinator of NAPTIP’s Benin Zonal Command, emphasizing the importance of this conviction in their ongoing efforts.

The couple’s actions violated Section 27 of the Trafficking in Persons (Prohibition) Enforcement and Administration Act of 2015, which is designed to prevent and penalize human trafficking activities. The court’s decision reflects a broader commitment to tackling the serious issue of trafficking and ensuring that perpetrators are held accountable for their crimes.

Mr. Aganran highlighted that this case represents a critical step in NAPTIP’s mission to apprehend, prosecute, and convict individuals involved in high-profile trafficking operations. The sentencing serves as a deterrent to others considering similar illegal activities and reinforces Nigeria’s stance against human trafficking.

This conviction not only brings justice for the victim but also underscores the dedication of law enforcement agencies and legal institutions in Nigeria to combat human trafficking and protect vulnerable individuals from exploitation.