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Police Rescue Toddler Trafficked and Sold Multiple Times Across Nigeria
The Niger State Police Command has successfully recovered a 2-year-old girl who was abducted and sold through a chain of buyers, including a pastor in Abuja, for a total sum of ₦6.6 million. This case highlights the ongoing challenges of child trafficking and abduction in Nigeria.
Details of the Abduction and Trafficking Network
According to the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Wasiu Abiodun, the toddler, Rahamat Mohammed, was kidnapped from Sabon-Wuse in Tafa Local Government Area by a suspected human trafficker named Victoria Ebunoha Chukwumezie. Victoria was previously apprehended with three other abducted children.
Investigations revealed that Victoria initially sold Rahamat to a woman named Rosemary, residing in Nyanya, Abuja. Subsequently, Rosemary transferred ownership of the child to Pastor Vincent Emmanuel, based in Abuja’s Asosi area, for ₦2.8 million.
Final Buyer and Plans for International Trafficking
Pastor Emmanuel later sold Rahamat to a London-based woman, Anthonia Nwabufor, for ₦3.8 million. Authorities uncovered that Anthonia was preparing to bring the child to the United Kingdom, coordinating with Rahamat’s mother in Asaba, Delta State, to facilitate the girl’s relocation abroad.
“Following the arrest of Victoria Chukwumezie at Diko Junction on November 5, 2025, and her subsequent confessions, our operatives from the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) in Minna traveled to Asaba, Delta State, on November 24, 2025,” the police statement detailed.
“Upon arrival, Rahamat Mohammed was recovered. Victoria admitted to abducting the child on October 2, 2025, and selling her to Rosemary in Nyanya. Rosemary then sold Rahamat to Pastor Vincent Emmanuel for ₦2.8 million, who later sold her to Anthonia Nwabufor for ₦3.8 million. Anthonia, based in London, instructed that the child be handed over to her mother in Asaba to arrange for her travel to the UK.”
“To date, six children have been rescued, and eight suspects connected to this trafficking ring have been arrested. Investigations are ongoing.”
Context and Broader Implications
This case underscores the persistent threat of child trafficking in Nigeria, where traffickers exploit vulnerable families for financial gain. According to recent reports by the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), thousands of children are trafficked annually within and outside Nigeria’s borders.
Efforts by law enforcement agencies, including coordinated operations across states, have led to increased recoveries and arrests. However, experts emphasize the need for enhanced community awareness, stronger legal frameworks, and international cooperation to dismantle trafficking networks effectively.
Preventive Measures and Community Role
Communities are encouraged to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to authorities promptly. Parents and guardians should be educated on safeguarding children from potential traffickers, especially in rural and high-risk areas.
Moreover, NGOs and government bodies continue to advocate for improved child protection policies and rehabilitation programs for rescued victims to ensure their safe reintegration into society.
