A High Court sitting in Awka, Anambra State, has sentenced a 44-year-old woman, Goodness Daniel, to five years in prison for human trafficking.
The verdict, delivered on June 27, 2025, by Justice Peace Otti, followed her conviction for buying and selling human beings, in violation of Section 21 of the Trafficking in Persons (Prohibition) Enforcement and Administration Act, 2015.
The prosecution was led by the Anambra State Command of the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP).
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The court, in its judgment, also gave the convict an option of a N2 million fine, and further ordered her to pay N2.6 million in restitution to the victim, who also testified against her.
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“This court finds the defendant guilty of trafficking in persons. The facts are clear and the evidence presented beyond reasonable doubt. She must face the consequences of her actions,” Justice Otti ruled.
The defendant was first arraigned on July 9, 2024. Her conviction comes as part of growing efforts by NAPTIP to ensure offenders are brought to justice.
Reacting to the judgment, NAPTIP described it as a significant victory in the battle against human trafficking.
“We welcome this verdict. It demonstrates that our courts are ready to protect the vulnerable and punish traffickers. This is a strong warning to anyone engaging in such heinous crimes,” a spokesperson for the agency said.
“We will continue to work with law enforcement, communities, and the judiciary to ensure justice prevails,” the spokesperson added.
The ruling underscores Nigeria’s commitment to curbing human trafficking and safeguarding the rights of victims.
