Human Trafficking: EWCF Calls For Tougher Prosecution Of Traffickers












Human Trafficking: EWCF Calls  For Tougher Prosecution Of Traffickers


... Advocates For Collective Action To Curb Menace 

By Iduozee Efe Paul, Benin 


The Emmanuel World Children Foundation (EWCF) convened a one-day forum at El Classico Hotel in GRA yesterday to mark the 2025 World Day Against Human Trafficking, calling for tougher prosecution of traffickers, stronger victim support and coordinated preventive measures.

The Founder, Emmanuel Adaramola opened the event by outlining Emmanuel World Children Foundation (EWCF) mission to rescue and rehabilitate trafficked girls. “Every rescued girl reminds us why we fight,” he said. 

For his wife, Mrs. Adaramola, then appealed to the government to improve educational sector, noted that, “When our schools are robust and accessible, our children gain the knowledge and confidence to resist exploitation.”

A short film showcased EWCF’s safe shelters, group therapy sessions and vocational training programmes, prompting sustained applause as survivors—now trainees and peer mentors—appeared on screen.

The highlight of the event was the panel session which featured panelists from different NGOs. Panelists urged immediate legal action against traffickers and elimination of corruption within law enforcement and border agencies.


 “Prosecuting traffickers without fear or favour is non-negotiable,” said Mr. Evans Ehiremen, Executive Director of Radujah Development Enterprise and Coordinator of NACTAL. Mrs May Ekido of Girls Power Initiative added that civil society and the media must serve as vigilant watchdogs, exposing networks that prey on the vulnerable.

A survivor-turned-advocate spoke next, recounting her ordeal and warning that economic hardship is traffickers’ greatest tool. “Had opportunities and training existed where I was, I would never have fallen into traffickers’ hands,” she told the audience, urging government investment in youth empowerment initiatives.

Madam Abel Beatrice highlighted the power of personal testimony and the need for holistic rehabilitation. “Each story shatters the silence and guides our prevention efforts,” she said, added that survivors must receive strong vocational and financial support to rebuild their lives.

Mrs. Obehi Okpiabhele, CEO of Genius Hub, stressed the necessity of partnership: “Collaboration and partnerships are key to ending human trafficking. We need to be organized in order to fight this organized crime. When government bodies, NGOs and communities unite, we form an unbreakable front against these networks.”

Speakers also recommended introducing age-appropriate anti-trafficking education in primary schools and called for rigorous screening of security personnel to root out any complicit actors.

The occasion which was moderated by Gbenga Ajisola, the panel included Ademolaju Adefunke alongside Mr. Ehiremen, May Ekido, Madam Abel Beatrice and the survivor spokesperson. Representatives from NACTAL; Genius Hub; Girls Power Initiative; Radujah Development Enterprise; and the Fullness of Life Counselling and Development Initiative (FULIFE) attended.

In his closing remarks, Emmanuel Adaramola reaffirmed Emmanuel World Children Foundation (EWCF) commitment: “We will continue our work until every trafficker is brought to justice and every survivor can thrive.” Participants left pledging ongoing cooperation to eradicate human trafficking across Edo State.

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