The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) has rescued a 14-year-old girl, Bashariyya Usman, from a case of severe domestic abuse and exploitation allegedly perpetrated by the wife of a top Sokoto State government official.
The victim, an internally displaced person (IDP) from Dan Gyalla village in Zamfara State, had fled banditry with her family to an IDP camp in Sokoto. She was later recruited under false pretenses by the suspect—an Abuja-based socialite who visited Sokoto earlier this year—and promised domestic work with monthly wages and enrollment in school.
According to investigations, the suspect initially engaged Bashariyya to assist with chores during a short visit but later took her to Abuja, pledging to support her education and remit a monthly ₦10,000 stipend to her family. However, within weeks, the girl was subjected to inhumane treatment: starved, confined to a dark room, physically abused, and exposed to rituals that caused severe burns and trauma.
Concerned residents who noticed her deteriorating condition alerted the Network Against Child Trafficking, Abuse and Labour (NACTAL), which escalated the matter to NAPTIP. The agency, under the directive of its Director General, Binta Adamu Bello, launched an immediate operation involving its headquarters and Sokoto Command operatives.
Upon discovery, Bashariyya was in critical condition—malnourished, dehydrated, and bearing visible bruises, scars, and burn marks. NAPTIP operatives successfully retrieved her from the suspect’s custody and secured her admission into a hospital in Sokoto, before airlifting her to Abuja for further medical and psychological care.
“This is one of the highest forms of inhumanity,” said NAPTIP DG Binta Adamu Bello. “This young girl was recruited, transported, and grossly abused under false promises. Her physical and emotional condition reflects brutal neglect and psychological torment. The suspect preyed on her vulnerability and must face justice.”
Bello affirmed that the agency will pursue prosecution of the alleged perpetrator and ensure full rehabilitation support for the victim. She also praised NACTAL for their swift action and encouraged citizens to remain vigilant against child trafficking and abuse.
NACTAL National President, Abdulganiyu Abubakar, commended NAPTIP’s leadership, stating, “We will continue to support efforts to secure justice for Bashariyya and others like her.”
NAPTIP has reiterated its commitment to protecting vulnerable children and prosecuting those who exploit or abuse them—regardless of social or political status.
Members of the public are urged to report suspected cases of trafficking, child abuse, or exploitation to NAPTIP or its partner organizations nationwide.