The Cross River State House of Assembly has proposed a bill to tackle human trafficking, describing it as a challenge fueled by poverty, unemployment, family breakdown, and socio-environmental factors.
The bill is sponsored by the member of the Cross River State House of Assembly representing Yala 1 state Constituency,
Yala 1 State Constituency, Brian Odey on Thursday successfully passed its second reading.
The bill seeks to provide a strong legal framework to prevent human trafficking, prosecute offenders and protect victims across the state.
It stated “Human trafficking remains a significant challenge in Cross River. The state’s proximity to Cameroon and Equatorial Guinea makes it both a source and a transit route for trafficked persons. Victims are often exploited for forced labor, commercial sex work, organ harvesting, and domestic servitude, with many transported to other parts of Nigeria and beyond.”
Presenting the bill, Odey stressed that it comprises 27 sections, addressing critical areas such as the establishment of the State Taskforce on Trafficking, prohibition of human trafficking, criminalisation of sexual exploitation and child labour and jurisdiction for prosecuting offenders.
He emphasised that the bill would give the state a stronger legal backing to combat trafficking and provide necessary protections for victims.
Lawmakers unanimously supported the bill, underscoring its importance in protecting the most vulnerable members of society.
The member representing Boki 2, Hilary Bisong, described human trafficking as a criminal offense that must be tackled decisively. He stressed that victims should be protected while offenders are prosecuted.
Additionally, Francis Asuquo from Odukpani, noted that domesticating the anti-trafficking law would enhance protections for vulnerable groups and set a clear legal standard within the state.
Member from Yala 2, Martin Achadu likened human trafficking to a modern-day slave trade, calling for swift passage of the bill to put an end to the menace.
In his remarks, the Speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly, Elvert Ayambem charged the House to take the bill seriously, emphasising that trafficking is a grave crime that must be met with strict punishment.
He assured that the 10th Assembly remains committed to protecting every Cross Riverian and would take all necessary steps to ensure the bill becomes law.
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