Child-Trafficking Ring Busted in Kogi, 21 Minors Rescued

Child-Trafficking Ring Busted in Kogi, 21 Minors Rescued

By Muslimat Itopa

Security operatives in Kogi State have foiled a major child-trafficking operation in Yagba East Local Government Area, rescuing 21 underaged children believed to have been moved into the state under suspicious circumstances.

The Kogi State Government confirmed the development in a statement on Friday signed by the Commissioner for Information and Communication Evangelist Kingsley Fanwo revealing that the children, aged between 6 and 17, were intercepted around 3:00 p.m. on December 5, 2025, by officers of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Yagba Area Command.

The operation was carried out in collaboration with other security agencies in Isanlu, following intelligence provided by community hunters.

According to preliminary findings, the children were transported from various northern states by adults who were unable to provide legitimate reasons for their movement.

Authorities suspect the group may have been trafficked for possible covert recruitment into banditry.

Several suspects have been arrested in connection with the incident. Some of them reportedly claimed that the children were being conveyed to Yagba East to establish an informal Islamic school.

However, intensified surveillance by security operatives led to further arrests, with additional individuals found in possession of items that raised serious security concerns.

The rescued minors have been moved to the NSCDC State Command in Lokoja for deeper investigation and proper profiling of all involved parties.

Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo has ordered the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development to assume full custody of the children and ensure their welfare and psychosocial support while investigations continue.

The government stated that once profiling and verification are concluded, the children will be returned to their respective state governments for further inquiries and eventual reintegration with their families.

Suspects found culpable will face prosecution under Kogi State’s Child Trafficking and Child Rights Protection laws.

Reaffirming its zero-tolerance stance on child trafficking and security threats, the state government assured residents that it will continue to work closely with security agencies and local communities to safeguard the state.