The case of Salome Igwe from Obi Local Government Area of Benue State has drawn attention after she was declared missing in Lagos on June 16, 2026, and later found in Burkina Faso.
A social media post by Daniel Ajogi Jairus highlighted the incident, expressing alarm over what it described as the high rate of young Benue girls engaging in prostitution in distant countries. The author noted that many of these girls reportedly lack skills, business ideas, or educational qualifications needed for better opportunities.
The post contrasted the situation with other ethnic groups, claiming that Yoruba and Igbo communities often produce professionals such as doctors, nurses, lecturers, and pilots, while some Benue and Kogi girls allegedly travel to cities for sex work before returning home without acquiring meaningful skills.
It called on the Benue and Kogi state governments to urgently investigate and address the issue, warning that many of these journeys end tragically with girls being raped, killed, or imprisoned abroad.
The case of Salome Igwe has amplified ongoing discussions about human trafficking, youth unemployment, and the vulnerability of young women from the region seeking opportunities outside the state. Authorities are yet to issue an official statement on the specific incident, but the development underscores the need for stronger interventions in skills development, awareness campaigns, and protection of vulnerable citizens.
