25 Trafficked Minors Rescued at Aguleri Hotel, Anambra

Twenty-five girls trafficked from Ebonyi State to Anambra have been rescued from a hotel in Aguleri, where they were reportedly forced into prostitution. A video shared on social media by a local resident shows that they were brought in by “madams” from other states, including Akwa Ibom, Abia, and Niger, and were prevented from leaving.

Divine, a 14-year-old survivor, recounted that a woman had approached her and her cousin in Abakaliki with a job offer in Anambra. Upon arrival, they were informed about the nature of the work but resisted and wanted to go back, though they were told they had to repay the transportation costs.

Divine’s mother, who had reported her missing in October 2025, tracked her daughter to Aguleri and alerted local authorities, where she and the other women were found being forced into prostitution in a brothel in Anambra East Local Government Area.

The Anambra State government has condemned the trafficking and exploitation, calling for a thorough investigation. Commissioner for Information Dr. Law Mefor described the acts as serious violations of human dignity and Nigerian law, including the Child Rights Act and the Criminal Code.

“The government has instructed relevant security and regulatory bodies to urgently investigate the claims, ascertain the facts, ensure the safety of any minor involved and bring to justice all perpetrators and accomplices,” Dr. Mefor said. 

He reassured that those engaged in such crimes in Anambra will face the law.

“Operators of such modern-day travesties should rest assured that the long arm of the law is actively searching for them. Public safety remains a top priority, and all lawful measures are being strengthened to protect vulnerable individuals, especially children.” He added, 

“The rescue highlights the ongoing efforts of the Anambra State government to combat human trafficking and sexual exploitation, with authorities vowing that offenders will face severe penalties under Nigerian law.”