Husband Flees as NSCDC Arrests Woman for Alleged Human Trafficking in Ibadan

IBADAN – The Oyo State Command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has arrested a 28-year-old woman, Kemi Kolawole, over an alleged human trafficking case involving a 17-year-old girl reportedly sent abroad for prostitution. Her husband, Oni Kayode, 32, is currently at large.

Kolawole, a resident of Ifeleye in the Ogunpa area of Ibadan and a native of Oyo town, was apprehended on Thursday, January 22, 2026, by the Command’s Anti-Human Trafficking Unit following a complaint lodged by the victim’s elder sister, Temilade Olayiwola, on January 20.

Investigations reveal that the victim, Ayomide Olayiwola, was allegedly trafficked on November 25, 2025, by Kolawole and her husband. The couple reportedly lured the teenager with false promises of a job abroad before facilitating her travel out of Nigeria. The girl was taken first to Côte d’Ivoire and later to Libya, where she was allegedly forced into prostitution.

NSCDC further disclosed that the victim was introduced to the traffickers by Rodiat Lawal, an apprentice at Kolawole’s market shop in Ifeleye, Ogunpa Market. Kolawole trades in slippers, shoes, and other merchandise. Investigators said the victim’s desire for employment made her vulnerable to exploitation, a common tactic used by traffickers targeting youths in economically disadvantaged areas.

The Oyo State NSCDC Command reaffirmed its commitment to tackling human trafficking, describing it as a serious violation of human rights. Kolawole is expected to be charged in court, while efforts continue to locate her husband, believed to be a key figure in the operation.

The Command urged residents to remain vigilant, report suspicious activities, and cooperate with security agencies. “When you see something, say something,” the Command advised, emphasizing that public support is critical in the fight against human trafficking.