The government of Akwa Ibom State has officially returned 44 Ghanaian nationals to their native country after they were rescued from human trafficking sites situated in Umo Ekpo, Ifuho community within Ikot Ekpene Local Government Area, and Ekpri Nsukara community in Uyo Local Government Area.
The repatriation was executed at the Department of State Security (DSS) operational headquarters in Uyo, where the Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs, Princess Emem Ibanga, handed over the victims, comprising 27 men and 17 women, to Mr. Leslie Lawson, an official from the Ghana High Commission.
In her remarks, Princess Ibanga emphasized the state government's commitment to ensuring public safety and security. She noted that this operation underscores the governor's proactive approach toward safeguarding lives and creating a secure environment for all citizens.
"This accomplishment is part of our ongoing efforts. It demonstrates the purposeful strategy of the Governor to protect lives and foster safety for all inhabitants," she articulated in a press statement released on March 20, 2026.
She elaborated that, under the current administration, security has been prioritized through enhanced partnerships with security organizations, effective intelligence sharing, prompt responses to potential threats, and continuous investment in necessary security infrastructure.
Furthermore, she pointed out community-based security initiatives that empower local inhabitants to act as the first line of defense, coupled with a zero- tolerance stance towards criminal activities, including human trafficking and organized crime.
The commissioner detailed that the victims endured harsh living conditions after being deceived, coerced, and lured into the region with false promises of opportunities in Europe.
Upon their rescue, the state government provided care and support to the victims while facilitating their safe return to their homeland to reunite with their families.
Princess Ibanga commended the DSS and other security agencies for their efforts in dismantling the trafficking syndicate and ensuring the victims' safe extraction from their respective locations.
Sharing his experience, Gideon Yeboah, one of the rescued individuals, recounted how he was scammed out of 30,000 Cedis and subsequently imprisoned at a camp in Ifuho community since February 25.
Brig. Gen. Koko Essien (retd), the Commissioner for Internal Security and Waterways, expressed satisfaction with the successful rescue operation. He urged the public to remain vigilant and cautious of seemingly too-good-to-be- true offers, even if presented by acquaintances.
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