Oyo NSCDC Apprehends Housewife in Human Trafficking Case as Husband Evades Capture
The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Oyo State Command, has made a significant arrest in connection with a human trafficking operation. A 28-year-old housewife is now in custody over allegations of trafficking a minor for prostitution, while her husband, identified as an accomplice, has fled and remains wanted by authorities.
Details of the Arrest and Alleged Crime
In a statement released to journalists on Saturday, January 31, 2026, in Ibadan, the Command's Public Relations Officer, Mr. Samuel Opebiyi, confirmed the arrest. The suspect was taken into custody on January 22, following a report made by the victim's sister to the NSCDC's Anti-Human Trafficking Unit on January 20.
According to preliminary investigations, the offence occurred on November 25, 2025. The housewife and her husband are accused of orchestrating the trafficking of a 17-year-old girl to Côte d'Ivoire (Ivory Coast) for the purpose of prostitution. The NSCDC has established that the victim was lured with false promises of job opportunities before being trafficked abroad.
How the Victim Was Connected to the Suspects
The investigation revealed that the victim came into contact with the alleged trafficking syndicate through an intermediary named Rodiat. Rodiat is an apprentice at the suspect's shop, located within Ifeleye, Ogunpa Market in Ibadan, where shoes, bags, and other accessories are sold.
The victim reportedly approached Rodiat expressing her desire to find employment, after which she was introduced to the suspects. This connection highlights the deceptive methods often used by traffickers to exploit vulnerable individuals seeking better opportunities.
Ongoing Investigations and Public Appeal
While the NSCDC continues to investigate the full details and network of this illicit operation, efforts are actively underway to apprehend the fleeing husband. The state NSCDC Commandant, Augustine Padonu, has urged members of the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities related to human trafficking to the NSCDC or other security agencies for prompt action.
Commandant Padonu reiterated the command's unwavering commitment to combating human trafficking and related offences. He emphasized that the NSCDC will intensify efforts to rescue victims and ensure that all persons involved in such crimes are brought to justice.
Legal Proceedings and Future Steps
The suspect is set to be charged to court as the legal process moves forward. The NSCDC has assured that it will not relent in its pursuit of the husband, who is currently on the run. This case underscores the ongoing challenges in tackling human trafficking in Nigeria and the critical role of community awareness and reporting in preventing such crimes.
The arrest serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by human trafficking syndicates and the importance of collaborative efforts between security agencies and the public to protect vulnerable individuals, especially minors, from exploitation.
