In a compelling response to recent allegations of human trafficking involving Nigerian nationals, the Nigerian community in Ivory Coast has called for collaboration and shared responsibility in safeguarding vulnerable individuals, particularly children. This appeal follows a viral video by activist VeryDarkMan (VDM), which brought attention to the plight of young Nigerian girls reportedly trafficked to the country.
The controversy intensified after VDM’s video referenced the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM) and its Chairperson, Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa. The clip ignited discussions across social media platforms and raised significant concerns within the Nigerian diaspora as well as back home.
Mr. Onwuchelu Michael Emeka, President of the Nigerian Community in Ivory Coast, affirmed the community’s commitment to addressing the human trafficking issue and distanced themselves from accusations of disloyalty to their home government. “Our meeting with VeryDarkMan was conducted with good intentions, aimed at formulating lasting solutions to the human trafficking menace troubling our people,” he stated in a press release.
Emeka explained that while the community appreciated VDM’s activism, they were unaware that their discussions would incite such controversy. “Our intention was never to foster division or undermine any governmental entity. We aim to promote collaboration,” he added.
The community leader emphasized the importance of uniting advocacy efforts with government initiatives to ensure a meaningful impact. “We believe both NIDCOM and activists like VeryDarkMan can work together for our children’s welfare. Instead of building walls, we should be constructing bridges.”
Further solidifying their commitment to the cause, Emeka recognized the ongoing support from the Nigerian Embassy in Ivory Coast and praised Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa for her continued dedication to the welfare of Nigerians abroad. He remarked on the necessity of advocacy in shedding light on hidden issues, asserting that the primary focus should now be on protecting victims and preventing future exploitation.
To reinforce the collaboration among stakeholders, Emeka announced that the Nigerian community in Ivory Coast plans to embark on a series of courtesy visits to key Nigerian organizations, including NIDCOM. The goal is to synchronize strategies for ensuring the safety and well-being of Nigerians in the diaspora.
“We owe it to our people, especially the younger generation, to work in unity. The safety of Nigerians abroad should always be a shared responsibility,” he urged.
In a notable development, VDM announced via his Instagram account that he has donated 20 million naira to the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) to aid in the rehabilitation and repatriation of trafficked children from Ivory Coast. Furthermore, he called for the immigration authorities to play an active role in protecting vulnerable children, especially young girls.
Additionally, Dr. Allen Onyema, an airline owner, pledged that his airline would facilitate the return of the trafficked girls back to Nigeria free of charge, further emphasizing the collective effort to address this pressing issue.
As the situation continues to unfold, the Nigerian community in Ivory Coast remains steadfast in its commitment to the protection of its most vulnerable members and insists on cooperation among all stakeholders to combat human trafficking effectively.
