A government-led task force has uncovered widespread underage sexual exploitation during an overnight operation across the Jos–Bukuru metropolis, leading to the rescue of several minors from hotels, brothels, and motels.
The operation was carried out by the Plateau State Task Force Committee on Human Trafficking, made up of the Ministry of Justice, NAPTIP, Nigeria Immigration Service, NACTAL, NDLEA, NSCDC, and the Nigeria Police Force, all within Plateau State.
During the coordinated raids, young girls aged between 11 and 17 years were rescued, including persons living with disabilities, a breastfeeding mother, and a pregnant lady. Officials said many of the victims were found in unsafe environments late at night.
Preliminary findings revealed a disturbing pattern of underage girls being drugged and sexually exploited by adult men. Authorities noted that many of the rescued minors should have been in school but were instead exposed to drugs, abuse, and trafficking.
Speaking during the operation, the Chairman of the Task Force and Attorney-General of Plateau State, Hon. Barr. Philemon Audu Daffi, described the situation as a painful reflection of societal failure. He blamed insecurity, economic hardship, broken homes, and poor parenting for pushing many young people into vulnerable conditions.
Barr. Daffi urged task force members to act within the law and with conscience, stressing that the rescued minors are victims who still have a future. He warned that no one would be shielded from justice, regardless of status or connections.
Also speaking, a representative of NACTAL, Mrs. Vivien Ebere Festuu, said the operation was focused on protecting the lives and future of children who are increasingly exposed to drugs and sexual exploitation. She called on parents and guardians to take greater responsibility for their children.
The Secretary of the Task Force, Barr. David Nenfort Yilji, warned hotel and lodge operators against accommodating minors, stating that any facility found harbouring underaged persons would be shut down by the government.
The raids covered several locations in Jos North and Jos South LGAs, including Jos Hotel, Plapoly Hotel, Stefans Hotel, Plateau Central Hotel, Summit Hotel, Polo De Glit, Garden Palace, and People’s Hotel, among others.
As of the time of filing this report, the rescued victims were undergoing screening and investigation, after which the government is expected to provide rehabilitation, protection, and other necessary support.
Officials said the operation marks the beginning of sustained actions to dismantle networks exploiting vulnerable children and serves as a call for collective responsibility from families, communities, and society at large.
