The Nigerian Senate has taken a significant step to rescue hundreds of Nigerian women and children trapped in Libyan prisons. Led by Senator Aniekan Bassey, the Senate urged the Federal Government to collaborate with Libyan authorities to fast-track their release and repatriation. The motion, which was unanimously adopted, highlights the dire conditions faced by these individuals, including human trafficking, slavery, and severe human rights abuses.
Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan emphasized that many Nigerian women were deceived with false promises of jobs abroad, only to end up trafficked and imprisoned after escaping forced prostitution. The Senate also referenced reports by Amnesty International and the International Organisation for Migration (IOM) documenting widespread abuses in Libyan detention centers.
Key Resolutions:
– Collaboration with Libyan Authorities: The Senate urged the Federal Government to work with Libyan authorities to secure the release and repatriation of Nigerian women and children.
– Comprehensive Repatriation Programme: The Federal Government is expected to develop a programme for returnees, including *psychosocial support*, *skills training*, and *startup assistance*.
– Diplomatic Engagement: The Senate called for strengthened diplomatic engagement with Libya and collaboration with regional organizations like the African Union, ECOWAS, and the United Nations to ensure justice and protection for Nigerians in detention.
This development comes as over 956 Nigerians were rescued from Libya in the first quarter of 2025, with many more still trapped in detention centers. The Senate’s action aims to bring attention to the plight of these individuals and push for their safe return.
