The Akwa Ibom State government has handed over 44 Ghana nationals rescued from human trafficking camps within the state to officials of their home country.
According to a statement from the Government Press Unit on Friday, the victims—27 males and 17 females—were rescued from camps located in Umo Ekpo, Ifuho community, and Ekpri Nsukara.
During the handover to Ghana High Commission official Mr. Leslie Lawson, the State Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs, Princess Emem Ibanga, reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to protecting lives and maintaining security. She emphasized that safeguarding citizens remains central to Governor Umo Eno’s ARISE Agenda, supported by sustained investment in security infrastructure and operations.
Ibanga explained that the victims had been lured to the state with false promises of opportunities in Europe and were held in unhealthy conditions. Following their rescue, the government provided care and support and facilitated their safe return to Ghana for reunification with families.
She also praised the Department of State Services and other security agencies for dismantling the trafficking network. One of the victims, Gideon Yeboah, recounted being defrauded of 30,000 cedis and held hostage since February 25 in Ifuho community.
The Commissioner for Internal Security and Waterways, Brig. Gen. Koko Essien (retd.), urged the public to exercise caution against unrealistic offers and commended the alignment of security operations with the ARISE Agenda.
Mr. Lawson of the Ghana High Commission expressed gratitude for the rescue and encouraged the victims to support awareness campaigns by Ghana’s Ministry of Youth and Sports against trafficking and irregular migration.
The State Director of Security, Mr. Nudim Iroakazi, also advised the victims to remain vigilant and pledged ongoing collaboration with security agencies to combat organized crime in the state.
