By Sunday Apah
The Executive Director of Business Development of the Nigerian Export-Import Bank, Hon. Stella Okotete, has rescued Miss Anabel, a young woman trafficked to Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, for the purpose of forced prostitution.
Reports indicate that upon arrival in Ivory Coast, Anabel refused to enter the trade. Consequently, she was abandoned by her traffickers in Abidjan. Her plight came to light after a Good Samaritan discovered her and shared her story on social media.
Moved by the viral video, Hon. Stella Okotete immediately initiated the repatriation process and covered all costs to ensure Anabel’s safe return to Nigeria.
Writing on her official Facebook page, Hon. Okotete stated: “I thank God that Anabel has returned home safely. Her joyful homecoming to the Uvwiamuge community in Agbarho, Ughelli North LGA, Delta State, is a moment of relief, gratitude, and hope for all of us.
“This incident reminds us that the responsibility of protecting our children rests with every parent, guardian, and member of society. I especially call on mothers to pay closer attention to the welfare, safety, and well-being of their children, particularly the girl child.”
She continued, “Human trafficking remains a grave threat to our communities. We must remain vigilant, educate our children, speak up against suspicious activities, and work together to protect every child from exploitation. Welcome home, Anabel. May your story continue to inspire greater awareness and stronger community action.”
The Chairman of the Ughelli North Local Government Council, Chief Jaro Egbo, who received Hon. Okotete and Miss Anabel, has pledged to sponsor Anabel’s return to school to continue her education.
