Cross River lawmakers move to combat human trafficking with new bill
The Cross River State House of Assembly has introduced a bill aimed at combating human trafficking, identifying it as a pressing issue driven by poverty, unemployment, family instability, and socio-environmental factors.
Sponsored by Brian Odey, the representative of Yala 1 State Constituency, the bill successfully passed its second reading on Thursday.
The proposed legislation seeks to establish a strong legal framework to prevent human trafficking, prosecute offenders, and protect victims across the state.
The bill highlights the severity of human trafficking in Cross River, noting that the state’s proximity to Cameroon and Equatorial Guinea makes it both a source and a transit route for trafficked individuals.
Victims are often subjected to forced labor, commercial sex work, organ harvesting, and domestic servitude, with many transported to other parts of Nigeria and beyond.
While presenting the bill, Odey explained that it comprises 27 sections, covering key areas such as the creation of a State Taskforce on Trafficking, the prohibition of human trafficking, the criminalization of sexual exploitation and child labor, and the jurisdiction for prosecuting offenders.
He emphasized that the bill would strengthen the state’s legal framework to combat trafficking and ensure adequate protection for victims. Lawmakers unanimously supported the bill, acknowledging its significance in safeguarding the most vulnerable members of society.
Hilary Bisong, the representative of Boki 2, described human trafficking as a serious criminal offense that must be confronted decisively, stressing the need to protect victims while ensuring offenders face justice.
Similarly, Francis Asuquo from Odukpani noted that domesticating the anti-trafficking law would enhance protections for vulnerable groups and establish a clear legal standard within the state.
Martin Achadu, representing Yala 2, likened human trafficking to modern-day slavery and called for the swift passage of the bill to eradicate the menace.
In his remarks, the Speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly, Elvert Ayambem, urged lawmakers to treat the bill with urgency, emphasizing that trafficking is a grave crime requiring strict punishment.
He reassured that the 10th Assembly remains committed to protecting all Cross River residents and will take the necessary steps to ensure the bill becomes law.
