The Plateau State Government, in partnership with the State Taskforce on Anti-Human Trafficking, has organised a workshop to address the rising issue of human trafficking in the state.
The event brought together key stakeholders from government agencies, security forces, civil society organisations, and traditional institutions to create a unified strategy against the crime.
During the workshop, the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Philemon Daffi, expressed concern over Plateau’s growing reputation as a human trafficking hotspot.
He described the initiative as a “deliberate and strategic effort” by the government to raise public awareness and form a united front against the crime, stating that tackling human trafficking is an “urgent concern” for the administration.
Panellists and participants voiced concerns about the poor implementation of existing laws and the lack of convictions.
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Olivia Dazyem, Chairperson of the Gender & Equal Opportunities Commission in the state, challenged stakeholders to move beyond rhetoric and enforce laws more effectively.
The state NAPTIP Commander, Alexander Adole, called for better collaboration, grassroots engagement, and funding to tackle the crisis.
Participants from the three senatorial zones of the state requested that the anti-trafficking task force be deployed to all local government areas for improved monitoring.
They also urged a review and potential domestication of the Trafficking in Persons (Prohibition) Enforcement and Administration Act (TiPPEA) to better suit the state’s specific realities.
Justice Charles Domlong addressed the role of the judiciary, explaining that courts base their decisions on the strength of evidence presented, not sentiments.
He encouraged law enforcement to conduct thorough investigations to ensure that genuine cases receive justice.
In his closing remarks, Daffi announced that the government will support the task force in drafting a new anti-trafficking law specifically tailored to the state’s needs.
“We shall not allow Plateau to remain a hub for human trafficking,” he declared, promising a new law that reflects the state’s realities and emerging threats.
