Convict Sentenced Over Child Trafficking
A Federal High Court in Abeokuta, Ogun State, has sentenced 27-year-old Chukwuemeka Iheamama to 12 years in prison for trafficking two minors for exploitation.
The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons confirmed the conviction.
Officials said the case involved child trafficking and attempted exploitation.
Victims Identified as Teenagers
Authorities identified the victims as Bright Edim, 15, and Mary Ekong, 15.
Investigators said the suspect trafficked the teenagers for exploitation.
The case raised fresh concerns over child trafficking in Nigeria.
Arrest Made in Ogun
According to NAPTIP, officers of the Nigeria Police Force arrested Iheamama on April 12, 2025.
The arrest took place in Agbara area of Ogun State.
Investigators said he was transporting the victims toward Badagry.
From there, he allegedly planned to move them to Ghana for prostitution.
Case Handed to NAPTIP
After the arrest, police transferred the case to the Ogun State Command of NAPTIP.
The agency then launched further investigation and prepared legal action.
As a result, prosecutors filed charges before the Federal High Court.
Court Found Him Guilty on Three Charges
NAPTIP said the court tried Iheamama on a three-count charge.
The charges bordered on child trafficking and exploitation.
Justice A. A. Okeke of the Federal High Court handled the trial.
The court later found him guilty on all counts.
Sentence and Fine Details
For count one, the court sentenced him to two years in prison and a ₦250,000 fine.
For count two, he received five years in prison and a ₦500,000 fine.
The court also handed him another five-year sentence for count three.
However, the sentences will run concurrently.
Trial Timeline Revealed
NAPTIP said the court arraigned the convict on June 18, 2025.
The trial later began on October 15, 2025.
After reviewing the case, the court delivered judgment on May 20, 2026.
Agency Reaffirms Fight Against Trafficking
NAPTIP said the conviction highlights ongoing efforts to tackle human trafficking.
The agency also warned traffickers that authorities would continue to pursue offenders.
Meanwhile, officials urged the public to report suspicious child trafficking activities.
