Plateau State raises alarm over rising human trafficking cases after rescue of three women from Mali
via Punch Nigeria5 min read
The Plateau State Government has expressed concern over an increase in human trafficking following the rescue and return of three young women allegedly trafficked to Mali and forced into prostitution. The Global Anti-Human Trafficking Organisation GAHTO handed over the victims to Plateau State officials for rehabilitation and reintegration. The rescued women, Victoria, Joy, and Janet, recounted being lured with promises of legitimate employment but ending up in sexual exploitation. Olivia Dazyam, Special Adviser to Governor Caleb Muftwang on Gender Matters and Executive Secretary of the Plateau State Gender and Equal Opportunities Commission, highlighted the growing menace, particularly among vulnerable women and children. She warned parents against entrusting children to strangers, as economic challenges make many susceptible to false promises of jobs or education abroad. Dazyam commended partners for their support in rescues and the state government's focus on victim rehabilitation, which includes counselling, psychosocial support, and empowerment programs. Efforts are also underway to prosecute traffickers. Prosper Michael, Founder of GAHTO, stated that the rescue operation began after receiving information about two young women held in sexual captivity in Mali, emphasizing the need for stronger partnerships to dismantle trafficking networks. The victims shared their harrowing experiences, with one, Victoria, an orphan and mother, appealing for support to establish a busin
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The Coalition for National Unity and Youth Development has appealed to President Bola Tinubu to suspend certain aspects of the proposed reforms to the National Youth Service Corps NYSC. The group warned that altering the scheme's traditional structure could weaken its role in national unity, discipline, and emergency service. While acknowledging efforts to modernize the NYSC, the coalition argued against fundamentally changing an institution that has served Nigeria for over five decades. They called for an expanded committee, including former NYSC directors-general, security experts, university administrators, and youth organizations, to review the proposals before they reach the National Assembly. The coalition emphasized that the NYSC was established as a nation-building institution and should not be reduced to merely a vocational training program. They also defended the military component of the orientation camp, highlighting its importance for discipline and civic responsibility, and noted the strategic role of corps members during national emergencies like COVID-19. The group dismissed claims that the reforms would introduce digital innovation, stating that many administrative processes are already automated, and suggested that funding is the bigger challenge. They also expressed concern over the debate surrounding changes to corps members' uniforms, underscoring the need for broader consultations. The Federal Executive Council had approved a comprehensive overhaul of th
A video of a corn seller claiming to earn N2.5 million monthly has gone viral, igniting discussions across social media platforms in Nigeria. The short clip, shared on X, shows the seller stating her monthly income, leading to mixed reactions. Many Nigerians questioned the feasibility of such earnings, with some users performing calculations to dispute the claim, while others suggested possibilities like multiple business branches. Concerns were also raised about the potential security risks the publicity could pose to the seller. This social media debate follows recent remarks by First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu, who encouraged Nigerian women to engage in low-capital businesses like corn roasting, suggesting they could benefit from grants. Her comments had previously drawn criticism for seemingly downplaying economic hardships. President Bola Tinubu and his Special Assistant on Social Media, Dada Olusegun, defended the First Lady's statements, highlighting broader government empowerment initiatives. The discussion around petty trading and economic empowerment has since extended beyond social media, even appearing in a university examination at Prince Abubakar Audu University, Kogi State.
Must ReadThe Nigerian Senate has defended its passage of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria Alteration State Police Bill, 2026, stating that 84 out of 109 senators voted in favor during clause-by-clause consideration. Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, clarified that the bill resulted from years of consultations, public hearings, and engagements with various stakeholders, including the Executive, the Nigeria Governors’ Forum, and the Nigeria Police leadership. He dismissed claims of partisan interests, highlighting that opposition legislators participated actively. Bamidele noted that public hearings in July 2025 across the six geopolitical zones showed overwhelming support for state police. He argued that the current security system is overstretched and that the proposed amendment clearly defines responsibilities for federal and state police to prevent conflicts. Federal police would handle national security matters, while state police would enforce state laws and maintain public order. The bill includes safeguards against abuse by governors, such as requiring National Police Council recommendations and two-thirds majority approval from the relevant state House of Assembly for police commissioner appointments. A State Police Service Commission would independently regulate state police operations, and federal intervention would only occur under specific conditions like a breakdown of public order or threats to national security.