Map of Benue State
By TYAV SAM TYAV, Makurdi –
Tension is running high in Gboko Local Government Area of Benue State, particularly in the Akaajime area, following the disappearance of several children and allegations of human trafficking linked to a panel beater from Cross River State.
The suspect, who is based in Gboko, is accused of trafficking juveniles to various parts of the country and possibly abroad.
The suspect according to locals allegedly disappeared last week, leaving behind a trail of missing teenagers. Investigations reveal that the suspect took the victims without their parents’ consent, sparking widespread concern and tension.
Our checks further indicate that some of the parents of the victims, including Mr. Terfa and Ephesians, residents of Akaajime, Gboko informed, that when they discovered the disappearance of their children and after an accelerated investigation, it was discovered that, the suspected trafficker was with their children and has since distributed them to his customers who were using the victims for hard labour.
Parents of the missing children have issued an ultimatum to the Cross River indigenes living in Gboko, demanding that they produce the suspect and the victims within two days from March 10, 2025.
Sources reveal that the suspect has been contacted through phone calls and has promised to return to Gboko on Wednesday. However, it remains unclear whether he would bring the missing children with him. Allegations suggest that the victims may have been forced into a one-year contract.
In the meantime, the suspect’s fiancée, who resides with him in Akaajime, has been placed under close surveillance by local youths, pending the suspect’s return.
