Air Peace Chairman, Dr. Allen Onyema, has voiced strong condemnation and offered immediate assistance following the disturbing discovery of Nigerian underaged girls trafficked to Ivory Coast.
The plight of the girls was recently brought to light by activist VeryDarkMan, sparking widespread concern.
In a press statement released Friday, Dr. Onyema expressed his profound dismay at the inhumane act of trafficking.
“We should discourage trafficking of any kind. It is inhumane and callous. It is absolutely ungodly and a good example of man’s inhumanity to man,” he stated.
Demonstrating a commitment to corporate social responsibility and the well-being of Nigerian citizens, Air Peace has pledged to airlift the rescued girls back to Nigeria free of charge.
Also, Dr. Onyema announced that the airline will provide comprehensive medical care for the young victims upon their return.
He affirmed, “We, in Air Peace, are ready to bring our fellow citizens back home free of charge,”
“Besides that, we are going to send all of them to Duchess International Hospital in Ikeja for free medical examination and treatment.”
Air Peace has urged the Nigerian Embassy in Ivory Coast to take immediate steps to locate and assemble the trafficked girls, and to establish contact with the airline to facilitate their repatriation.
Beyond immediate rescue and medical attention, Dr. Onyema called upon the Federal Government of Nigeria to assume responsibility for the long-term welfare of the girls.
“While we implore the Nigerian Embassy in Cote D’Ivoire to assemble them and reach out to us, we equally call on the Federal Government to take charge of their education while reuniting them with their families,” he emphasized.
This intervention by Air Peace reiterates the critical role of private sector involvement in addressing social issues and providing support to vulnerable populations.
The offer of free flights and medical treatment offers a lifeline to the young victims and highlights the urgent need for a concerted effort to combat human trafficking at all levels.
Authorities in Nigeria and Ivory Coast are expected to collaborate on this matter, ensuring the safe return of the girls and launching investigations to bring the perpetrators of this heinous crime to justice.
The call for federal government involvement in the girls’ education and reintegration into their families signals a commitment to their long-term recovery and well-being.
This developing story will continue to be monitored, and updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
