The Akwa Ibom State Government has handed over 44 Ghanaian nationals rescued from human trafficking camps to officials of the Ghana High Commission, marking a major step in the state’s fight against organized crime.
The victims, made up of 27 males and 17 females, were rescued from illegal camps located in Umo Ekpo in the Ifuho community of Ikot Ekpene Local Government Area and Ekpri Nsukara in Uyo Local Government Area.
According to a statement released by the Government Press Unit on Friday, the victims had been held in difficult and unhealthy conditions after being deceived and trafficked into Nigeria.
Speaking during the handover, the Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs, Emem Ibanga, said the rescue operation reflects the strong commitment of Governor Umo Eno to protect lives and ensure safety across the state.
She explained that the state government has continued to invest in security infrastructure and logistics to support security agencies in tackling crime. According to her, this effort is part of the ARISE Agenda, the policy framework of the current administration.
“The security of lives and property remains a top priority for this government,” she said. “We are working closely with security agencies to ensure zero tolerance for human trafficking, kidnapping, and other organised crimes.”
Ibanga added that the successful rescue of the victims was not by chance but the result of careful planning and strong collaboration between government and security agencies.
The commissioner revealed that the victims were lured into Nigeria with false promises of better job opportunities in Europe. Many of them had hoped to travel abroad in search of improved living conditions but instead fell into the hands of traffickers.
Upon arrival, they were held in camps under poor conditions and forced to wait while their captors demanded money or made further false promises.
One of the victims, Gideon Yeboah, shared his experience. He said he was defrauded of 30,000 Ghanaian cedis and kept in captivity since February 25.
“I was told I would travel to Europe, but I ended up being locked in a camp,” he said. “It was a very difficult experience.”
His story reflects the growing problem of human trafficking in West Africa, where many young people are targeted by criminal networks.
The rescue operation was carried out with the support of the Department of State Services and other security agencies. These agencies were able to track down the camps, dismantle the trafficking network, and free the victims.
The Commissioner for Internal Security and Waterways, Koko Essien, praised the efforts of the security teams. He said their work shows the importance of coordination in tackling crime.
He also warned members of the public to be careful when presented with offers that seem too good to be true, even if they come from trusted sources.
“People should verify information before taking decisions, especially when it involves travel or job opportunities abroad,” he said.
After their rescue, the Akwa Ibom State Government provided temporary care and support for the victims. This included shelter, medical attention, and counselling to help them recover from their ordeal.
Officials said steps were also taken to ensure the safe return of the victims to Ghana, where they are expected to reunite with their families.
The handover ceremony was attended by officials of the Ghana High Commission, who expressed gratitude to the state government for its efforts.
A representative of the commission, Leslie Lawson, thanked the authorities for rescuing and caring for the victims.
“We appreciate the support given to our citizens,” he said. “We will ensure that they are safely returned and reunited with their families.”
Lawson also urged the victims to share their experiences as part of awareness campaigns against human trafficking and illegal migration. He noted that many people fall victim to such crimes because they are not fully aware of the risks.
Human trafficking remains a serious problem in Nigeria and across West Africa. Criminal groups often target young people with promises of jobs, education, or travel opportunities abroad. In many cases, victims end up being exploited or held against their will.
The State Director of Security, Nudim Iroakazi, advised the victims to learn from their experience and remain cautious in the future.
He also assured that the state government would continue to work with security agencies to prevent similar incidents.
Nigeria is both a source and transit country for human trafficking. Many victims are taken to different parts of the country or moved across borders to other regions.
Authorities have stepped up efforts in recent years to tackle the problem, including stronger laws, increased surveillance, and public awareness campaigns. However, challenges remain due to poverty, unemployment, and lack of information.
The rescue and handover of the 44 Ghanaian nationals is seen as a positive step in the fight against human trafficking. It shows that with strong cooperation and commitment, such crimes can be reduced.
For the victims, the journey to recovery is just beginning. While they have regained their freedom, many will need time and support to rebuild their lives.
For the Akwa Ibom State Government, the operation sends a clear message that criminal activities will not be tolerated.