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The Principal Special Assistant to the Governor of Benue State on Human Trafficking and Child Labour, Hon. Emmanuel Iorhemba Anundu, has reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to combating human trafficking while cautioning the public against misleading narratives on social media.
In a press release issued on May 28, 2026, Hon. Anundu noted with serious concern the increasing public discourse and viral content surrounding alleged trafficking of Benue girls. While acknowledging that human trafficking remains a painful reality requiring urgent action, he clarified that investigations have revealed some circulated videos and testimonies do not accurately represent genuine cases of child trafficking or coercion involving minors.
The PSA explained that some mature individuals who willingly migrated outside Benue State or beyond Nigeria for prostitution-related activities later present themselves online as underage victims to attract public sympathy and support. He described such acts as misleading, unfortunate, and damaging to the image of the Benue girl child.
Hon. Anundu emphasized that while genuine victims deserve compassion, protection, rehabilitation, and justice, it is important not to generalize every case of adult migration or prostitution as child trafficking. He warned that false presentations complicate the fight against actual trafficking and weaken public trust in rescue interventions.
The statement reaffirmed the Benue State Government’s unwavering commitment under Governor Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia to protecting minors, teenagers, and vulnerable young persons. It called on the public, community leaders, parents, religious institutions, youth groups, and security agencies to remain vigilant, report verified cases, and avoid spreading unverified information that could create panic or stigmatize innocent persons.
Hon. Anundu urged continued collaboration and support for the government’s efforts in addressing human trafficking and child labour in the state.
