Delta State Intensifies Fight Against Human Trafficking with New Law
By Onoriode Etatsemi
ASABA/Nigeria: The Delta State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Ekemejero Ohwovoriole SAN, has announced a significant step in combating human trafficking as Governor Sheriff Oborevwori signed the Delta State Human Trafficking Prohibition Bill into law.
This was disclosed during a one-day sensitization program organized in Asaba by the Delta State Task Force on Human Trafficking in collaboration with the Directorate of Transport and the Girl Power Initiative (GPI) to mark the 2024 International Migrants Day.
Addressing participants, which included members of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), the Committee of Maritime Truck Owners Association (COMTOA), and private park operators, Ohwovoriole expressed concern that Delta State had surpassed Edo State in reported cases of human trafficking. He emphasized the role of transporters in curbing this menace, urging them to be vigilant in observing passengers’ behavior and to report suspicious activities to authorities.
The Attorney-General highlighted the new law’s strict provisions, which include severe penalties for offenders and the seizure of vehicles used for human trafficking. He called on transport operators to support the government’s efforts by ensuring thorough passenger checks and compliance with the state’s anti-trafficking regulations.
Engr. Victor Omoniyi, representing the Commissioner for Transport, underscored the importance of Delta State’s transportation data management law. He warned operators to collect accurate passenger data and cautioned against allowing individuals who refuse to provide proper information to transit through their parks. He stated that non-compliance could result in park closures, vehicle seizures, fines, or imprisonment for those found complicit in trafficking activities.
Mrs. May Ikoghode Ekido, coordinator of the Girl Power Initiative, commended the Attorney-General for his unwavering support of anti-trafficking efforts. She expressed optimism that the newly enacted Delta State Human Trafficking Prohibition Law would significantly reduce trafficking cases. She also called for continued collaboration with the Ministry of Justice to enhance the state’s response to this challenge.
Another facilitator, Mrs. Nwanze Ijeoma, urged transporters to remain proactive in identifying and addressing trafficking activities, emphasizing the devastating impact of trafficking on individuals and communities.
The event was attended by key stakeholders, including the Deputy Chairman of the NURTW, the Secretary of COMTOA, members of the State Task Force on Human Trafficking, and representatives from the Directorate of Transport and the Ministry of Justice.
