Operatives of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Oyo State Command, have arrested a 28-year-old woman, Kemi Kolawole, in connection with the alleged trafficking of a 17-year-old girl to CĂ´te dâIvoire (Ivory Coast) for prostitution.
The arrest was made on January 22, 2026, following a report filed two days earlier with the NSCDCâs Anti-Human Trafficking Unit in Ibadan. ââNSCDC Public Relations Officer Samuel Opebiyi said in a statement that the victim, identified as Ayomide, was introduced to the suspects after seeking job opportunities through a friend. He explained, âThe victim reportedly approached Rodiat Lawal, expressing her desire to secure a job opportunity⌠after which she was introduced to the suspects.â
According to Opebiyi, Ayomide was allegedly lured with false promises before being taken abroad. ââThe girlâs elder sister, Temilade, had reported her missing to the anti-trafficking unit on January 20, prompting the NSCDCâs swift action.
Preliminary investigations suggested that the offence occurred on November 25, 2025, when Kolawole and her husband, Oni Kayode, orchestrated the trafficking plot. Opebiyi said Kayode, aged 32, is currently at large as authorities intensify efforts to apprehend him. ââCommandant of the Oyo NSCDC, Augustine Padonu, urged the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities relating to human trafficking. He also assured that Kolawole would be charged to court when the investigation is completed and reiterated the commandâs commitment to combating trafficking and protecting vulnerable persons.