Survivors seek greater role in anti-trafficking fight

Survivors of human trafficking have called for greater inclusion in anti-trafficking policies and interventions, emphasizing their first-hand knowledge can strengthen prevention, protection, and accountability. The Voices Unchained – Trafficking Survivors Initiative, a survivor-led organization, was launched in Abuja by three recent survivors of forced criminality: Anthony Ogbonna Joseph, Morgan Chikadibia Jaja, and Alex Oluwayomi Onyeji.

Anthony Joseph, the head of administration, urged survivors to move from being beneficiaries to contributors in the fight against trafficking. He highlighted the recruitment process that appeared professional but was designed to build trust and exploit vulnerabilities. The survivors returned to Nigeria after rescue and faced new challenges, including rebuilding confidence and finding meaningful work.

They established Voices Unchained, focusing on prevention, protection, prosecution, partnership, and policy. The organization has participated in national and international engagements and aims to translate activities into measurable outcomes. The National President of the Network Against Child Trafficking, Abuse and Labour encouraged survivors to remain consistent and develop their skills, emphasizing the importance of survivor participation in policy development and anti-trafficking interventions.