NSCDC human trafficking Oyo case unfolds as a 28-year-old housewife is arrested and her husband declared wanted over alleged trafficking of a teenager

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Oyo State Command, has arrested a 28-year-old housewife over alleged human trafficking, as operatives intensify efforts to apprehend her husband, who is currently at large.

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Samuel Opebiyi, spokesperson for the command, disclosed in a statement issued in Ibadan on Saturday that the arrest followed a report lodged by the victim’s sister with the Anti-Human Trafficking Unit on 20 January.

Samuel Opebiyi said the suspect and her husband allegedly trafficked a 17-year-old girl out of Nigeria for prostitution after luring the teenager with false promises of employment.

Preliminary findings, according to Samuel Opebiyi, indicated that the offence was committed on 25 November 2025.

The statement referenced trafficking routes involving Côte d’Ivoire and Libya as investigations continue to clarify the movement of the victim and the network behind the operation.

Samuel Opebiyi said the victim came into contact with the alleged syndicate through an apprentice identified as Rodiat at the suspect’s shop in Ifeleye area of Ogunpa Market, Ibadan, where shoes, bags and accessories are sold.

The victim had reportedly approached Rodiat while seeking job opportunities and was subsequently introduced to the suspects.

Augustine Padonu, Commandant of the NSCDC in Oyo State, urged members of the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities related to human trafficking to security agencies for prompt action.

Augustine Padonu reiterated the command’s commitment to combating human trafficking and related offences, noting that the suspect would be charged to court while efforts to arrest the fleeing husband continue.

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Investigations are ongoing to uncover the full extent of the illicit network and to ensure all individuals connected to the case are brought to justice.