A disturbing case of alleged human trafficking involving young girls from Benue State has come to light following an update shared by activist Zege’Orkwande Sughnen Yaaya.
According to the post, four girls were allegedly trafficked to Lagos by Andy Iorkaha of Yandev in Gboko Local Government Area, under the pretense of working in a restaurant owned by his girlfriend, Blessing. The girls were initially treated well to build trust before being moved to Mali with promises of better-paying restaurant jobs in a larger establishment.
Upon arrival in Mali, however, the girls were reportedly forced into prostitution instead of restaurant work. The situation worsened when Blessing brought in another batch of girls, leading to the first group being relocated. Tragically, one of the girls has died, while activist efforts have led to the rescue of Mimidoo two days ago. Two others are said to have been sold to another camp and remain in need of urgent rescue.
Andy Iorkaha was reportedly arrested in Gboko weeks ago but initially denied involvement until evidence from the rescued victim Blessing reportedly exposed the full details. The activist claims Iorkaha operates with agents across Benue State, including one identified as Zeros in Kusuv, Buruku Local Government Area.
Zege’Orkwande has called for justice, stating that if Iorkaha is still at the Tor Tiv Palace following his arrest, he will ensure the suspect faces full legal consequences. The post was copied to the Benue State Government, Benue State Police Command, Makurdi, and other relevant organisations and individuals.
This latest development highlights the ongoing challenges of human trafficking in the region and the need for stronger collaboration between security agencies, government, and community activists to protect vulnerable young women from exploitation. Authorities are yet to issue an official statement on the matter.
