A Bayelsa State High Court has sentenced 29-year-old Mariam Omokiri to seven years in prison for allegedly trafficking young girls from Bayelsa State to Mali and Senegal for prostitution.
The court also imposed a fine of ₦1 million on the Delta State native for her role in supposedly organising, exporting, and promoting the prostitution of vulnerable girls.
On Wednesday, October 15, 2025, Justice Doris Adokeme delivered the judgment at High Court 3 in Yenagoa, following a case brought by the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons and Other Related Offences (NAPTIP).
“Omokiri was arraigned on January 30, 2025, after investigations revealed she trafficked four girls across West African borders for commercial sex work.
“During the trial, prosecutors presented compelling evidence detailing how she recruited, organised, and transported the victims for sexual exploitation.”
The court found Omokiri guilty of violating several provisions of the Trafficking in Persons (Prohibition) Enforcement and Administration Act, 2015, specifically Sections 13(1)(2)(b), 13(4)(a)(c), 14(b), and 18.
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In her ruling, Justice Adokeme stated, “From the totality of the evidence by the prosecution, I am satisfied that the prosecution has successfully proved its case.”
She underscored the seriousness of human trafficking, noting its damaging impact on Nigeria’s international image and the urgent need for a strong judicial response.
The conviction marks a significant milestone in NAPTIP’s efforts to dismantle human trafficking networks targeting vulnerable women and girls, particularly in the Niger Delta region.
Reacting to the verdict, Acting Commander of NAPTIP’s Bayelsa State Command, Mr Fadewara Timiebiowei, praised the court’s decision, saying, “This judgment sends a clear message that Bayelsa is not a safe haven for human trafficking.”
He also urged parents and guardians to remain vigilant and report any suspected trafficking activities to NAPTIP or other security agencies.
The case highlights the Nigerian government’s ongoing commitment to fighting human trafficking and protecting its citizens from exploitation and modern-day slavery.
