The Towulade of Akinale, Oba Olufemi Ogunleye has reiterated the need for advocacy and inclusion of traditional rulers across Nigeria to strengthen the fight against human trafficking.
At the launch of a ‘Compendium of Good Practices of State Taskforces in Combatting Trafficking in Persons from 2017—2022’ at Transcorp Hilton, Abuja recently, the royal majesty, who is also Head of Legal Unit of Ogun State Taskforce on Human Trafficking, hinted of an ongoing synergy between the taskforce and traditional institutions. He said that the collaboration could be replicated across the nation.
Oba Ogunleye said: “I congratulate NAPTIP (National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons) on her 20th year anniversary, and particularly on the success of this Compendium of Good Practices.
“It is my expectation that NAPTIP takes as a priority the involvement of more traditional rulers in this fight against human trafficking.
“As gatekeepers of our communities, and custodians of culture and tradition, the commitment of a substantial number of traditional rulers will generate impressive results we can all be proud of.
“It is important that I reiterate the committment of Ogun State government, through its taskforce, to continue support NAPTIP on this important assignment. In line with the new mandate received through the theme for this year’s World Day against Trafficking in Persons, we will continue to reach every victim of trafficking to ensure we leave no one behind”.
