The Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Ghana has confirmed the repatriation of 44 Ghanaians trafficked into Nigeria under the pretext of false employment and travel opportunities.
On Friday, the Akwa Ibom government said it handed over 44 rescued nationals from two human trafficking camps in the state to officials from Ghana.
The victims, comprising 27 males and 17 females, were rescued from two human trafficking camps at Umo Ekpo, Ifuho community in Ikot Ekpene LGA; and the Ekpri Nsukara community in Uyo LGA.
In a statement on Saturday, Ghana’s ministry of foreign affairs said the 44 victims were rescued on March 16 by Nigerian security authorities, including the Department of State Services (DSS), in collaboration with relevant Ghanaian institutions.
The ministry said the affected individuals were “subjected to exploitative conditions, including restricted movement and psychological coercion”.
It added that they were “lured through deceptive means, including social media and informal recruitment channels”, and the victims were pressured to recruit others into the scheme. The government of Ghana is working closely with its Nigerian counterparts and relevant stakeholders to facilitate ongoing efforts to dismantle the criminal networks involved. Steps are also being taken to ensure the protection, rehabilitation and reintegration of the victims.
“The ministry expresses its sincere appreciation to the government of the Federal Republic of Nigeria for its prompt intervention and continued cooperation.
“Government reiterates its strong condemnation of human trafficking and fraudulent recruitment practices and remains committed to safeguarding the welfare of Ghanaian nationals.