Two women have been arraigned before a Badagry Magistrate's Court in Lagos State on charges of child trafficking and modern-day slavery, police authorities confirmed on Sunday.
The defendants, identified as 25-year-old Loveth Christian and 17-year-old Damilola Basiru, are facing a two-count charge of trafficking and exploitation of minors, in violation of the Lagos State Criminal Law.
According to Police Prosecutor Inspector Ayodele Adeosun, the suspects were apprehended on April 26 in the Ajara Agamathen area of Badagry. They allegedly attempted to traffic two teenagers, aged 15 and 18, to Ghana for the purpose of exploitation and slavery.
The prosecutor informed the court that the offences contravene Sections 276 and 411 of the Lagos State Criminal Law, 2015.
Presiding Magistrate Patrick Adekomaiya ordered the remand of both defendants at the Kirikiri Correctional Centre. The pleas of the accused were not taken during the arraignment, pending legal advice from the Director of Public Prosecution (DPP).
The case has been adjourned to June 30 for further hearing.
Child trafficking remains a significant concern in Nigeria, with authorities intensifying efforts to combat the practice across the country. This case highlights ongoing law enforcement operations targeting human trafficking networks operating between Nigeria and neighboring West African countries.
