The Ebonyi State Police Command has arrested Chukwudi Nwite, popularly known as “Igbaoto,” Special Assistant on Internal Security to Mr. Ikechukwu Ogboffia, Chairman of Onicha Local Government Area, over alleged human trafficking.
Police Spokesman SP Joshua Ukandu confirmed the arrest, explaining that Nwite allegedly facilitated the movement of a 16-year-old girl from her community in Ohoaffia Amoffia, Ukawu, to Libya. The incident reportedly took place on October 10, and investigations are ongoing.
The victim’s father, Mr. Johnson Agu, alleged that Nwite, disguised as a commercial motorcycle rider, picked up his daughter with her luggage and transported her to Ugwulangwu in Ohaozara LGA, where she boarded a bus for her journey.
Agu claimed that the investigation by community members uncovered an alleged trafficking network involving another suspect, Lady Maduabuchi Ugbala.
A 15-year-old friend of the victim, whose identity was withheld, revealed that Nwite had attempted to recruit her into the scheme but she refused.
She alleged that Nwite took photographs of both girls and sent them to Ugbala.
Village Head Clement Okorofor corroborated the account, stating that Nwite was seen taking pictures of the victims and later admitted to facilitating the journey when interrogated by villagers.
He provided the phone number of his alleged partner in the trafficking syndicate to authorities.
Upon further questioning by police, Nwite denied being a trafficker, claiming he merely assisted the girls in contacting Ugbala and transporting one to the motor park.
State Coordinator of the Gender-Based Violence Taskforce, Mrs. Faithvin Nwanchor, confirmed that a thorough investigation is underway, while Mrs.
Goodness Mbajah of the Civil Society Network on Migration and Development stated that evidence suggested elements of trafficking and exploitation, emphasizing that due process would be followed.
Ogboffia, the council chairman, said that Nwite must face consequences if found guilty, noting that he was among six appointees tasked with maintaining law and order in local communities.
