The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Oyo State Command, has arrested a 28-year-old housewife over an alleged case of human trafficking involving a minor.
The Command’s spokesperson, Samuel Opebiyi, disclosed this in a statement issued to journalists on Saturday in Ibadan, noting that investigations are ongoing to apprehend the suspect’s husband, who is currently at large and believed to be an accomplice.
According to Opebiyi, the suspect and her husband allegedly trafficked a 17-year-old girl to Côte d’Ivoire for the purpose of prostitution. He added that the woman was arrested on January 22, 2026, following a formal complaint lodged by the victim’s sister with the command’s Anti-Human Trafficking Unit on January 20.
Preliminary investigations, however, revealed discrepancies in the trafficking route, with findings indicating that the offence was committed on November 25, 2025, when the suspects allegedly arranged the victim’s movement to Libya under false pretences.
“While investigations into the full details and network of the illicit operation are still ongoing, the Command confirmed that the victim was lured with deceptive promises of better opportunities before being trafficked outside the country,” Opebiyi said.
Further inquiries by the NSCDC established that the victim was introduced to the alleged trafficking syndicate through one Rodiat, an apprentice at the suspect’s shop located in Ifeleye area of Ogunpa Market, Ibadan, where shoes, bags and other fashion accessories are sold.
“The victim reportedly approached Rodiat, expressing her desire to secure a job opportunity. She was subsequently introduced to the suspects, which led to her eventual trafficking,” the spokesperson added.
Reacting to the development, the Oyo State NSCDC Commandant, Augustine Padonu, urged members of the public to remain vigilant and promptly report any suspicious activities related to human trafficking to the NSCDC or other relevant security agencies.
Padonu reaffirmed the command’s commitment to the fight against human trafficking and related crimes, stressing that efforts would be intensified to rescue victims and dismantle trafficking networks across the state.
He added that the arrested suspect would be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations, while security operatives continue the search for her fleeing husband.