A 20-year-old girl, Iwinosa Okunrobo, who was trafficked to Burkina Faso at the age of 15, has reunited with her family in Benin City, Edo State, after five years apart.
Her return on Wednesday evening was facilitated by Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo, in collaboration with the Office of the First Lady and the Edo State Task Force Against Human Trafficking.
Okunrobo’s ordeal came to light through a viral TikTok video in which she tearfully appealed for help. She had been lured abroad with promises of a better life but was later forced into prostitution and sold into modern slavery.
At a reunion ceremony held at the Festival Hall in Government House, Benin, Governor Okpebholo—represented by the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Samson Osagie—reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to combating human trafficking.
“This is a significant moment, not just for Iwinosa, but for every young person who has fallen victim to the false promises of traffickers,” Osagie said. “The Edo State government remains determined to enforce the Edo State Trafficking in Persons Law of 2018 and ensure that perpetrators face the full weight of the law.”
He described Iwinosa as a symbol of resilience and a reminder of the urgent need to protect vulnerable youths from exploitation.
Edesiri Anani Okpebholo, coordinator of the Office of the First Lady, welcomed the rescued victim and expressed her joy at the successful rescue mission. She noted that Iwinosa’s story highlights the strength of the human spirit and the critical importance of supporting survivors.
“She will receive comprehensive care and support to help her recover,” Okpebholo assured. “We also urge mothers not to burden their children with adult responsibilities, as such pressure can expose them to dangerous paths.”
Iwinosa’s mother, Imuetiyan Osabuoyen, expressed deep gratitude to the state government for reuniting her with her daughter. She also denied any involvement in or knowledge of her daughter’s trafficking.
Lucky Agazuma, Director General of the Edo State Migration Agency, who led the mission to Burkina Faso to secure Iwinosa’s return, praised the collaboration between state agencies and reiterated the government’s commitment to rehabilitating and reintegrating trafficked victims.
He warned parents to resist societal pressure that often fuels risky migration decisions and stressed the importance of protecting children from exploitation.
