The Igbu Orlukwor Monarch, His Royal Highness Eze Prince Ike Ehie, Eze Igbu Orlukwor II (King Ehie II), has strongly condemned the alleged involvement of some Ekpeye women in recent cases of girl-child trafficking, describing the act as inhumane and contrary to societal values.
In a press statement issued on Wednesday from the Eze Igbu Orlukwor Palace in Ahoada East Local Government Area of Rivers State and signed by the Head of Information and Documentation, Eze Igbu Orlukwor Palace, Oyagiri Chime-emele, the traditional ruler described the alleged crime as wicked, evil, dastardly and injurious to all societal norms and values.
According to the monarch, the issue goes beyond the location or background of the victims, stressing that the psychological, emotional and social consequences of child trafficking leave lasting scars on survivors.
“It is not about the location or background of the victims, but the embedded and inherent evil, psychological effect, emotional trauma and the stigma associated with the act,” he stated.
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Eze Ehie called on security agencies to intensify efforts to investigate the reported incidents and ensure that those found culpable are brought to justice without delay.
He said prosecuting offenders would serve as a strong deterrent to others who may be involved in similar criminal activities.
The monarch also advised parents and guardians to exercise greater caution before releasing their children or wards to individuals offering financial incentives or promises of better opportunities.
He urged families to conduct proper background checks and verify the credibility of anyone seeking custody or care of their children to prevent them from falling victim to human trafficking.
