By Prosper Okoye

The issue of human trafficking has progressed to a level where some Nigerians identify as “willing victims.”

“People give themselves willingly because of poverty and other challenges,” said the Director, Patriotic Citizen Initiative (PCI), Osita Osemene.

According to a report from the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), the highest number of trafficked persons in Nigeria are women who are 18 years old or older.

Osita, who spoke with DAILY ASSET on the sideline of the human trafficking task force meeting on Wednesday in Abuja, said the event created room for broader deliberation to address this social menace.

“That is why there’s a need for this kind of structure. You know, before we didn’t have this kind of structure or intervention. We are preparing for the worst, so whatever happens now will counter whatever is coming, whether it is a willing victim, an unconscious victim, or a vulnerable victim. We will use whatever structure that is coming up now to counter it,” he added.

Furthermore, the Director stated that new strategies are being adopted in the war against trafficking.

“In line with this year’s trafficking theme: ‘reach every victim, leave no one behind,’ efforts against human trafficking is shifting from a victim-centered approach to a whole-of-community and whole-of-government strategy. The aim is to empower victims and involve all stakeholders, including government, the people, and traditional rulers, to combat traffickers effectively. The collaboration between various organizations has been fruitful, leading to a more extensive and holistic approach to tackle trafficking. Networking and reporting play a significant role in countering the activities of traffickers,” he pointed out.

However, Osemene stated that there are no current plans to offer palliatives to ease the difficulties caused by the removal of petrol subsidies, which has contributed to the desire for migration.

“The government, particularly the national government, is responsible for providing palliatives to help vulnerable groups, including victims of trafficking. While there are some existing programs offered by various agencies and NGOs, the main responsibility lies with the national government to address the needs of trafficking victims comprehensively,” he added.

Acknowledging the government’s weakness in reaching the majority of the people, which further intensifies the issue of willing trafficking victims, Osemena pointed out:

“Even if there are more victims, there are structures in place to help reduce their numbers. The challenge arises when there are no prepared interventions. Now, we have a structured intervention system in place. The government, shelters, and various programs can support vulnerable people, including those on the streets or stranded. In my shelter, for example, I have people who were rescued, and my organization provides them with food and a place to sleep. Isn’t that a form of palliative support? They have a safe place to stay and receive meals every day.”

Following the recent coup in Nigeria’s sister country, Niger republic, there are growing talks on a possible replica in the country. Intensifying this fear is the ongoing nationwide protest by the labour unions.

Albeit, the PCI Director dismissed this fear and noted: “”I think Nigeria has outgrown that. When I say we have outgrown that, the stage we are now, we are likely not to have such a thing because of the kind of system we run in Nigeria, mostly like a divide and rule.”

“The military has decentralized powers, and several factors influence the situation, such as tribal factors, ethnicities, sentiments, and religions, unlike other countries that share similarities.

“Nigeria’s system is not favorable to everyone. Despite feeling helpless and hopeless, we are still surviving, and we rely on divine intervention and hope that one day things will fall into place.

“Nigeria may not experience coup because the military’s situation in Nigeria is distinct from that in other countries. For instance, in Niger, the military is discontented with the system and development, but in Nigeria, the military enjoys generous benefits and a lavish lifestyle.

“Thus, we have individuals in various sectors who take advantage of the system, which is not the case in smaller countries. A coup might face countermeasures due to numerous interests at play in Nigeria,” he added.