NSCDC intercepts 21 trafficked minors in Kogi, arrests suspected traffickers

Members of the Nigerian Securities and Civil Defense Corp (NSCDC) in Kogi State apprehended 21 minors who are suspected to have been trafficked from various northern regions into Kogi State.

The security agency made the interception of the 21 minors in the Yagba East local government area of Kogi State based on reliable intelligence.

A statement issued by the Commissioner for Information and Communication, Kingsley Femi Fanwo, in Lokoja yesterday stated, "The Kogi State Government wishes to inform the public about the successful interception of a group of underage children trafficked into the State, which is suspected to be part of a covert recruitment effort for banditry training.

Providing further details regarding the arrest, Fanwo noted, "At approximately 1500 hours on December 5, 2025, vigilant security operatives of the National Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in the Yagba Area Command, in collaboration with other security agencies in Isanlu, acting on credible intelligence from community hunters, intercepted a truck transporting 21 children aged between 6 and 17 years into Kogi State. Initial investigations indicated that the children had been relocated from various northern states under dubious circumstances by adults who were unable to provide legitimate reasons for their transportation.

"Numerous suspects associated with the trafficking operation have been apprehended, including individuals who asserted they were transporting the children to set up an informal 'Islamic school' within Yagba East. Additional arrests were conducted as security operatives heightened surveillance in the area, revealing more individuals allegedly involved in the movement of the minors. Some of the suspects were also discovered to possess items that raised significant security concerns.

“The rescued children have since been transferred to the State Command of the NSCDC in Lokoja for detailed investigation and proper profiling of all persons involved.

“His Excellency, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, Executive Governor of Kogi State, has directed the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development to take full custody of the underaged victims, ensure their wellbeing, and provide the necessary psychosocial support pending the conclusion of investigations.

“Upon completion of profiling and verification, the children will be handed over to their respective State Governments for further investigation and eventual reintegration with their families. Meanwhile, all individuals found culpable in this trafficking operation will be prosecuted in line with Kogi State’s Child Trafficking and Child Rights Protection Laws.

“The Kogi State Government reiterates its uncompromising stance against child trafficking, criminal infiltration, and any form of security threat. The administration of Governor Ododo will continue to work closely with security agencies and local communities to safeguard every part of the State.”