The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) has said it was unaware of alleged sexual assaults linked to a festival in Ozoro, attributing the gap to the absence of an operational office in Delta State.
The agency’s response followed criticism from a social media user, Chukwunenye Nweke, who questioned why NAPTIP had not acted on what he described as a long-standing cultural practice allegedly associated with abuse.
Reacting via its official platform, the agency acknowledged the concerns but maintained that its reach remains limited.
“As you know, we cannot be everywhere at all times. Currently, we do not have a command yet in Delta State,” NAPTIP said.
The agency emphasised that tackling human trafficking and gender-based violence requires collective action beyond government institutions alone.
“Fighting this menace needs an approach from all of society. If you see something, say something,” it added, urging citizens to raise awareness and report suspected cases.
The exchange has sparked renewed conversations online about accountability, cultural practices and the protection of vulnerable groups, particularly in rural communities where oversight may be limited.
