Kano Court Jails Child Traffickers for 120 Years

Kano Court Jails Child Traffickers for 120 Years

In a powerful verdict that underscores Nigeria’s growing resolve to confront child trafficking, a Kano State High Court has sentenced six individuals to a combined 120 years in prison for their roles in abducting and trafficking children under the age of 10.

The convicted personsM ercy Paul, Ebere Ogbono, Emmanuel Igwe, Loius Duru, Monica Oracha, and Chinelo Ifedigwe were members of a notorious child abduction syndicate operating across state lines. They were found guilty on multiple counts including kidnapping, child trafficking, concealment, and criminal abetment.

The Shocking Details

The syndicate abducted several children from Kano in 2014 and trafficked them across the country, with many sold in Onitsha, Anambra State. The case gripped national attention after their arrest in 2019, triggering a six-year legal battle that culminated in this week’s final judgment.

Presiding judge Justice Zuwaira Yusuf issued a firm ruling, declaring all six defendants guilty and imposing harsh sentences without the option of fines:

• Mercy Paul – 55 years

• Ebere Ogbono – 41 years

• Emmanuel Igwe – 9 years

• Loius Duru – 6 years

• Monica Oracha – 5 years

• Chinelo Ifedigwe – 9 years

This comes after Mr. Paul Onwe, identified as the syndicate's ringleader, was sentenced to 104 years imprisonment in 2021 after pleading guilty to 38 charges.

A Turning Point for Justice?

This case represents one of Nigeria’s most high-profile child trafficking convictions to date. The court's ruling sends a powerful message that crimes against children will be met with full force under the law.

Anti-trafficking advocates have hailed the judgment as a landmark moment for child rights protection in Nigeria, urging more robust surveillance, cross-state collaboration, and victim rehabilitation services.

What’s Next?

As attention turns toward preventing future cases, rights groups are calling for:

• Stronger enforcement at inter-state transport hubs

• A national registry of missing and trafficked children

• Increased funding for anti-trafficking units and social services

• Lifelong support for victims and their families

This case is a grim reminder of the depths of human trafficking, but it also shows that justice, however delayed, is possible.

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