By Ibironke Ariyo
The Initiative to Combat Kidnapping, Trafficking in Persons, Child Abuse and Drug Abuse (AKH-TRACADA) announces the opening of a counter in Accra, Ghana, to combat the increase in human trafficking cases involving Nigerians.
Mr. Belonwu Ezeanyaeche, Founder and CEO of AKH-TRACADA, announced this in a statement issued on Thursday in Abuja.
Mr Ezeanyaeche explained that the decision to open the branch in Accra was taken following the findings of a two-week fact-finding mission conducted by the non-profit organisation.
The findings are said to reveal several cases of trafficking, abuse and forced labour involving Nigerian girls.
The organization is believed to have discovered that some victims, including minors and blind children, were held in inhumane conditions and forced to have sex.
Our hope is not to demonstrate the urgency of cross-border collaboration to dismantle trafficking networks.
We stand ready to work with the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) and all relevant agencies to rescue victims and prevent further exploitation.
Between May and June 2025, AKH-TRACADA will launch international awareness campaigns, through public meetings, workshops and stakeholder consultations, to combat drug trafficking and abuse.
We are also working with some Ghanaian partners and in contact with the Nigerian High Commission on ongoing investigations and rescue logistics.
AKH-TRACADA is closely monitoring four hotspots, including a location where six blind Nigerian rapists were allegedly trapped and abused.
The founder of AKH-TRACADA also revealed that a hotel in Accra was housing over 80 young Nigerian girls who were victims of sea trafficking and allegedly forced into prostitution.
He said the organisation was also aware of the case of a young Nigerian woman who suffered from mental health issues and who due to the light did not win and was currently receiving treatment in two hospitals.
“The girl is looking forward to returning to Nigeria and reuniting with her family,” he said.
Ezeanyaeche expressed concern over the growing abuse of a substance known locally as “RED,” which is reportedly used by many young trafficking victims, believing it to be more dangerous than tramadol.
Secondly, this is also one of the reasons why we sought a strategic partnership with NAPTIP to facilitate information, awareness, rescue missions and public awareness campaigns.
“We urge NAPTIP to intensify its rescue efforts, especially for the six blind and recently cured young people who wish to return home.
“This is not just a call to action; it is a call to collaboration. Together, we can dismantle these networks and offer hope and healing to victims,” Ezeanyaeche added.
He reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to working as a strategic partner with government agencies and international actors.
Ensure the organization of their full cooperation in the fight against human trafficking, child abuse and drug-related crimes.
The Nigerian High Commission deserves no praise for its cooperation and continued investigations into the reported cases.
