NSCDC Arrests Oyo Trader Over Alleged Trafficking of Teenager, Hunts Fleeing Husband
The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Oyo State Command, has arrested a 28-year-old housewife in Ibadan over the alleged trafficking of a 17-year-old girl for prostitution, following a report made to the command’s Anti-Human Trafficking Unit, authorities said on Saturday.
In a statement issued in Ibadan, the command’s spokesman, Mr Samuel Opebiyi, said the suspect was taken into custody on January 22 after the victim’s sister reported the matter on January 20, prompting an investigation into the alleged cross-border trafficking operation. He added that the suspect’s husband, believed to be an accomplice, is currently on the run.
According to the NSCDC, preliminary findings revealed that the housewife and her husband allegedly trafficked the minor to Côte d’Ivoire for prostitution, with investigations indicating that the offence was committed on November 25, 2025. Opebiyi noted that the victim was allegedly deceived with false promises before being taken out of the country.
“While investigations into the full details and network of the illicit operation are still ongoing, the Command confirmed that the victim was allegedly lured with false promises before being trafficked abroad.
“NSCDC, Oyo State Command, further established that the victim was brought into contact with the alleged syndicate through one Rodiat, an apprentice at the suspect’s shop, where she sells shoes, bags and other accessories, located within Ifeleye, Ogunpa Market, Ibadan,
“The victim reportedly approached Rodiat expressing her desire to secure a job opportunity, after which she was introduced to the suspects,” he said.
Opebiyi further disclosed that investigations also pointed to Libya as a destination in the trafficking arrangement allegedly coordinated by the suspects.
He quoted the Oyo State NSCDC Commandant, Mr Augustine Padonu, as calling on residents to be alert and promptly report suspected cases of human trafficking to security agencies.
“Padonu reiterated the command’s commitment to combating human trafficking and other related offences.
“The commandant said that the Command would continue to intensify efforts aimed at rescuing victims and ensuring all persons involved in the crime are brought to justice.
“He said that the suspect would be charged to court while efforts are being intensified to apprehend the fleeing husband.”
The NSCDC assured the public that investigations were ongoing to dismantle the wider network linked to the alleged crime.
