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Benue Anti-Trafficking Activist Alleges Orchestrated Smear Campaign and Violent Attacks Linked to Rescue of Scam Victims from Ghana.
A prominent Benue-based human trafficking interventionist, known on social media as D’naked Elder Zege’Orkwande, has publicly accused Maureen Msooter Terhemba, of masterminding a sustained campaign of defamation, threats, and physical assaults against him, allegedly in retaliation for exposing and dismantling a Yahoo-Yahoo (advance-fee fraud) training camp in Ghana operated by her brother.
In a detailed thread posted on Facebook, the activist, who claims certification with NAPTIP, Interpol, and multiple Nigerian security agencies described how he facilitated the rescue and repatriation of over 50 Benue youths lured to Ghana under false job promises, only to be subjected to brutal initiation rites and forced into cybercrime.
The Ghana Rescue Operation
According to the post, early last year, two victims, one from Konshisha, another from Ukum LGA, contacted the activist from Ghana. They alleged that Msooter Terhemba’s brother (referred to only as “Chairman”) had deceived them and dozens of others with promises of legitimate employment. Upon arrival, they were locked in a room with nearly 50 other Benue youths, beaten, and initiated into the “Hustling Kingdom” (HK) — a cybercrime syndicate.
“They were given laptops to be trained on scamming, with a target of 250 million naira before gaining ‘freedom,’” the activist wrote. “Only the headboy and trusted ones could shop for food. Phones were allowed only on Sundays. You eat once a day and defecate twice a week.”
With evidence of physical abuse, including photos of welts, bruises, and malnourishment — the activist secured consent from the victims’ families and coordinated with Nigerian authorities and the Nigerian Embassy in Ghana. Despite resistance from the ringleader, who allegedly used influence to delay release, several victims were eventually freed and transported back to Nigeria.
The activist personally funded their travel from Lagos to Benue, arranged medical checkups, and supported family reunifications. Police and EFCC petitions were filed, and the activist testified as a witness.
Arrest and Backlash
Following the operation, Msooter Terhemba’s brother was reportedly arrested and prosecuted in Ghana. The activist claims this triggered a wave of retaliation:
- Physical Attack: In one incident along George Ali Street in Makurdi, assailants shot at his vehicle around 6 PM. He escaped unharmed but renewed his firearm license for self-defense.
- Threats and Intimidation: Anonymous calls, kidnapping threats, and harassment extended to his child’s mother.
- Defamation Campaign: Msooter Terhemba allegedly sponsors false narratives online, accusing the activist of extortion and collusion with police.
The activist reported Msooter Terhemba to the Nigerian Police as a suspect in orchestrating attacks. During a confrontation at a police station, witnesses including Igbawua Kulekule Thaddus and Aga reportedly heard her shout, “I paid police money to arrest her!” a statement the activist says exposes corruption and malice.
Evidence and Appeal
Attached to the post were graphic photos showing:
- Severe back wounds consistent with beatings or chemical burns on a rescued victim.
- Malnourished youths in tattered clothing upon return.
- A dimly lit room with laptops, believed to be the training facility in Ghana.
The activist insists the Federal High Court case against the brother was dropped only because the defendant showed remorse and compensated victims, not due to foul play.
“My aim was to help victims return home,” he wrote. “I rescue girls from prostitution houses daily. Now I’m the victim?”
He has tagged NAPTIP, Interpol, the Nigerian Police, EFCC, and DSS, urging immediate investigation into the attacks and alleged obstruction of justice.
Public Reaction
As of publication, the post has garnered thousands of reposts and comments, with many praising the activist’s courage and others demanding accountability from authorities. Maureen Msooter Terhemba has not issued a public response.
This case highlights the dangers faced by anti-trafficking advocates in Nigeria and raises questions about the intersection of cybercrime, family loyalty, and community justice in Benue State.
Authorities have yet to comment officially.
