Court Remands Alleged Human Trafficker at Kirikiri Correctional Centre
A Federal High Court in Lagos on Wednesday ordered the remand of a woman, Rejoice John, alias Success, at the Kirikiri Correctional Centre for allegedly trafficking three young ladies to Ghana for prostitution.
Justice Chukwujekwu Aneke ordered her detention pending the court’s ruling on her bail application, following a five-count charge brought against her by the Federal Government of Nigeria through the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP).
According to NAPTIP’s prosecution counsel, U.I. Egonu, John was allegedly involved in organizing the foreign travel of young women under false pretences, with the intention of forcing them into prostitution.
The case highlights the ongoing battle against human trafficking, a crime that continues to tarnish Nigeria’s international reputation.
Court documents reveal that John allegedly facilitated the travel of a 22-year-old woman, identified as Queen, to Ghana in June 2024.
After being deported back to Lagos, she allegedly continued her operations, recruiting two more victims, Ella (21) and Grace (22), between June and September 2024.
These charges, filed under the Trafficking in Persons (Prohibition) Enforcement and Administration Act of 2015, reflect Nigeria’s tough stance on human trafficking. If convicted, John could face severe penalties under the law.
John pleaded not guilty to all charges.
While her defence counsel, E.O. Ajoku, argued that the offence is bailable and requested her release, the prosecution opposed the application, citing the severity of the case and its impact on Nigeria’s global image.
Justice Aneke has scheduled February 5, 2025, for a ruling on the bail application. Until then, John remains in custody as the legal process unfolds.
