The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) has apprehended a suspect allegedly involved in organ harvesting within Akwa Ibom State. This development was disclosed on Saturday by the agency’s State Zonal Coordinator, Emmanuel Awhen, during a press briefing held in Uyo to commemorate the 2025 National Human Trafficking Awareness Day.
The event, themed “Strengthening Communities by Connecting the Dots,” highlighted the agency’s ongoing efforts to combat human trafficking. Represented by the Head of Public Enlightenment, Eme Ukpabio, Awhen revealed that the arrested individual, though apprehended in Akwa Ibom, hails from another state. The suspect has since been transferred to their home state for further investigation and prosecution.
Providing updates on NAPTIP’s achievements, Awhen stated that the agency had secured over 60 convictions, with more than 15 cases currently pending in federal courts across the state. “We have had numerous arrests. However, not all cases qualify as human trafficking. When we identify legitimate trafficking cases, they are prosecuted. Between last year and now, we’ve achieved over five convictions,” he explained.
The coordinator raised concerns over the growing prevalence of organ harvesting in the state, pointing fingers at certain clinics and hospitals allegedly engaging in the illicit trade. “Organ harvesting has become alarmingly rampant. While many doctors operate legally, some clinics in this town are deeply involved in this illegal business,” he warned.
Ambassador Peace Edem, the State Coordinator of the Network Against Child Trafficking, Abuse, and Labour (NACTAL), emphasized the emotional and psychological toll of human trafficking. He called for sustained community awareness programs to combat the menace. “Human trafficking comes in various forms — sex trafficking, labor trafficking, and organ trafficking. The associated dangers include physical abuse, forced labor, and severe emotional trauma. Communities must be sensitized to recognize and avoid these dangers,” Edem stated.
Adding her voice, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Welfare, Mrs. Eno Ime Akpan, lauded the collaborative efforts of NAPTIP and NACTAL. She commended Governor Umo Eno for establishing the ministry, which she said is committed to upholding human dignity and combating trafficking.
NAPTIP’s renewed focus on organ harvesting underscores the need for stricter regulations and community vigilance to curb the growing threat in Akwa Ibom and beyond.
| Posted: at | |
fineboy77
gogoman
jalann
TRENDING GISTS 
Cubana Chief Priest Denies Allegations Of Fathering Children In Malaysia (Photos)
Deadly Clashes In Ebonyi State Leave Many Dead, Houses Razed
Chelsea v Wolves: English Premier League Match,Team News,Goal Scorers and Stats
Nigeria Joins BRICS As Partner Country, Eyes Inclusive Growth & Global Integration