The Edo State Government has successfully rescued and repatriated three trafficked indigenes of the state from Burkina Faso, among them a young woman who lost her sight following severe mistreatment. The Director-General of the Edo State Migration Agency, Lucky Agazuma, disclosed this while briefing journalists upon arrival at the Benin Airport yesterday.
Rescue Operation Details
Agazuma described the development as both a happy and a sad day, given the victims' ordeal. He identified the rescued individuals as Precious, Peace, and Evans. According to reports, Evans traveled to Burkina Faso in January 2026 but was immediately arrested and detained until the Edo State Government became aware of his situation.
The rescue operation was initiated after Nigeria's Ambassador to Burkina Faso, Ambassador Muhammad Galadima Danladi, alerted the Edo State Government about stranded indigenes. The information was promptly escalated to Governor Monday Okpebholo, who ordered immediate intervention.
Victims' Ordeal
Agazuma stated that two young women were trafficked under the guise of employment opportunities but were forced into prostitution upon arrival. When they refused to comply, they faced brutal consequences from their traffickers. One victim was subjected to extreme abuse, resulting in the loss of her sight.
“Two other ladies were deceived and trafficked from Edo to Burkina Faso with promises of jobs. On getting there, they were forced into prostitution, and when they declined, they were beaten mercilessly and subjected to all sorts of inhuman treatment. The second victim was maltreated to the point where she lost her sight before the governor quickly directed that we rescue them back to Edo. She will be taken to the hospital on the governor’s directive to see what can be done about her condition,” Agazuma explained.
Government Response
The Edo State Government has committed to providing medical care for the victims, particularly the woman who lost her sight. Governor Okpebholo’s swift action ensured the rescue and repatriation of the three indigenes, highlighting the state’s dedication to combating human trafficking and supporting victims.
