A Nigerian girl trafficked to Mali for prostitution has died under unclear circumstances. The victim, identified only as Ngufan, was a victim of human trafficking, according to anti-human trafficking activist Zege Orkwande.
Activist Announces Death on Social Media
Orkwande, who has been instrumental in rescuing Benue girls trafficked to various African countries for sexual exploitation, disclosed the death in a Facebook post on Sunday, June 21, 2026. He did not provide details on how or when Ngufan died, stating that the circumstances surrounding her death remain unclear at the time of filing this report.
In his post, Orkwande appealed to members of the public who may be related to the deceased to come forward for identification. He urged anyone with information about Ngufan's family to contact him or relevant authorities to facilitate the return of her remains.
Ongoing Crisis of Trafficked Nigerian Girls
This incident highlights the persistent crisis of human trafficking from Nigeria, particularly from Benue State, where young girls are lured with promises of better opportunities but end up in forced prostitution in countries like Mali, Ghana, and Ivory Coast. Orkwande has previously facilitated the rescue of several Benue girls from such situations, but many remain trapped.
According to the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), thousands of Nigerian women and girls are trafficked annually, with many ending up in West and Central African countries. The death of Ngufan underscores the dangers these victims face, including violence, disease, and neglect.
Call for Public Assistance
Orkwande's appeal for identification is crucial for Ngufan's family to be notified and for her body to be repatriated. He urged anyone with information to step forward, emphasizing the need for community support in combating human trafficking.
Authorities in Nigeria and Mali have been alerted, but no official statement has been released yet. The case adds to the growing list of tragedies linked to human trafficking, prompting renewed calls for stronger preventive measures and support for victims.
