The Plateau State Government has rescued dozens of minors allegedly caught in sexual exploitation, drug abuse, and human trafficking following coordinated raids on brothels, hotels, and motels across the Jos–Bukuru metropolis.
The operation was carried out by the Task Force Committee on Human Trafficking, made up of the Plateau State Ministry of Justice, NAPTIP, Nigeria Immigration Service, NACTAL, NDLEA, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, and the Nigeria Police Force, all operating under the Plateau State Command.
In a statement released on the Plateau State Government’s verified Facebook page on Tuesday, December 30, 2025, officials confirmed that girls aged between 11 and 17 were rescued. Among them were persons living with disabilities, including deaf and non-verbal victims, as well as a breastfeeding mother and a pregnant woman.
Authorities revealed that preliminary investigations indicate a troubling trend in which men allegedly drug and sexually abuse underage girls who should be in school but were instead found in unsafe locations late at night.
Speaking to members of the task force, the Committee Chairman and Attorney-General/Commissioner for Justice, Hon. Barr. Philemon Audu Daffi, described the situation as a reflection of deep societal failure. He attributed the crisis to insecurity, economic hardship, broken homes, and poor parenting, stressing that many of the victims did not willingly choose such paths.
Barr. Daffi urged the task force to act within the law and with fairness and conscience, emphasizing that the rescued minors still have a future. He warned against compromise, stating that justice would be served regardless of the status or connections of those involved.
NACTAL representative, Mrs. Vivien Ebere Festus, said the exercise was aimed at protecting the lives and futures of vulnerable children increasingly exposed to drugs, sexual exploitation, and trafficking. She called on parents and guardians to take greater responsibility for their children’s welfare.
The Secretary of the Committee, Barr. David Nenfort Yilji, expressed optimism that the intervention would positively redirect the lives of the rescued minors. He also warned hotel and lodge operators that any facility found accommodating underage persons would be shut down.
The raid covered several locations in Jos North and Jos South LGAs, including Jos Hotel, Plapoly Hotel, Stefans Hotel, Plateau Central Hotel, Summit Hotel, Garden Palace, and others.
As of the time of reporting, the rescued victims were undergoing screening and investigation, after which the government plans to provide rehabilitation, protection, and support. Officials stated that the operation marks the beginning of sustained efforts to dismantle networks exploiting vulnerable children and a call for collective social responsibility.
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