Miss Divine Asuzu, a human trafficking victim recently deported from Ghana, has been granted a scholarship by the Ugwumba Leadership Centre, a non-governmental organisation.
Asuzu was one of ten young girls aged 15 to 16 who were recently rescued by Nigerian and Ghanaian officials from sex traffickers in Ghana.
According to reports, the youngsters were trafficked to Ghana by a network to perform lucrative but unlawful commercial sex work.
The girls were allegedly lured to Ghana with the promise of a better life, but were instead abused, threatened, and coerced into prostitution. Three of the victims are children from the same parents.
A Nigerian guy is in custody on suspicion of complicity in the crime. Ugwumba Uche Nwosu, the President of the Ugwumba Leadership Centre for Africa, announced the scholarship offer on Saturday in Abuja.
What they’re saying
“In regards to the teenage girls who were repatriated from Ghana, let me sincerely commend His Excellency Senator Hope Uzodimma, the Governor of Imo State, for acting quickly to ensure the underage girls were rescued and returned home. At the same time, I would like to express my gratitude to those in the diaspora who were able to identify and raise the alarm that ultimately resulted in their rescue.”
“Now is not the time to pass judgement on young girls who may have already experienced emotional and psychological trauma.”
“Let us embrace them with kindness and assist them reclaim their honour and value in society.
“The parents of Miss Divine Asuzu, one of the girls who was saved from the Amaokpara community in Nkwerre LGA, Imo State, were greeted by the Ugwumba Leadership Centre on our end. Miss Divine Asuzu indicated that she would like to continue her studies.
“As an association that promotes youth development in Africa, we hereby give her a full scholarship to study at any of Nigeria’s government universities.
“Meanwhile, prior to her enrollment, we approved placing her on a monthly upkeep allowance.
“Special thanks to the Board and Management of the Ugwumba Leadership Centre for making this possible.”
Why does it matter?
It highlights the need for support systems for victims of sex trafficking. Asuzu’s scholarship shows how education and financial aid can empower survivors to rebuild their lives and start afresh.
Bottom Line
By showcasing a survivor receiving help, this story can encourage more action against sex trafficking and support for victims like Asuzu.
