The vacation division of the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), sitting in Maitama, has begun hearing a disturbing case involving four women accused of luring young boys from Imo State to Abuja under false pretences and then forcing them into street begging.
Those standing trial are Precious Silas, 30; Ngozi Unukwuwa, 47; Chidinma Onukwuagha, 40; and Favour Ohebegeim, 25. All four live in the Karimo area of Abuja. Police say their arrest followed weeks of investigation into a suspected child trafficking ring operating in the city.
Investigators allege that the women travelled to Imo State and convinced families to release their children, aged between seven and twelve, with assurances that they would be enrolled in good schools in the capital. Instead, the children allegedly ended up on the streets, used to solicit alms while the women pretended to be visually impaired.
The deception might have gone unnoticed but for the intervention of Brekete Family, a well-known human rights advocacy programme aired on Human Rights Radio and Television. Acting on tip-offs, the programme’s reporters uncovered the operation and passed their findings to the police, leading to the suspects’ arrest.
Police prosecutors have charged the defendants under provisions of the Trafficking in Persons (Prohibition) Enforcement and Administration Act, 2015, particularly Sections 14(b) and 27, as well as Section 3(1–3) of the Child’s Rights Act, 2003. These laws criminalise the trafficking of minors, the use of children for forced labour, and any activity that exploits them for financial gain.
At their first appearance on Thursday, August 14, the charges were read out in open court. Each of the accused pleaded not guilty. The lead prosecutor, Donatus Abah, requested that the court set a date for full trial so that the prosecution could present evidence and witnesses.
The women’s lawyer, B.C. Nnadika, applied for bail on their behalf, arguing that they should be released pending trial.
Presiding judge Justice Cyprian Agashieze granted bail to each defendant in the sum of ₦1 million, with two sureties in the same amount. He specified that the sureties must be senior officials of the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA), holding at least Grade Level 14 positions.
Until these bail requirements are met, the women will remain in custody at the Suleja Correctional Centre. The case has been adjourned until October 8, when trial proceedings are expected to begin.