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By Imongbe Efosa
The Localizing Trafficking in Persons Response Cluster (LOTIP-R), led by Uromi JDPCI, organized a community sensitization and public awareness rally to mark the Feast of St. Josephine Bakhita. This annual event, observed on February 8th as the International Day of Prayer and Awareness Against Human Trafficking, brought together individuals committed to combating this grave issue.
During the event, participants offered prayers for victims of human trafficking and engaged in discussions about effective strategies. The focus was on establishing dedicated response units at the local government level in Edo State. The Cluster emphasized the need for institutionalizing local response units and activating the Victims of Trafficking Trust Fund and its Committee to empower victims effectively and sustainably.
Under the auspices of the SCALE Nigeria Project, sponsored by USAID, the rally garnered active participation from various community stakeholders, including community leaders, youths, women, local government social protection actors, civil society organizations, returnees, survivors of human trafficking, and members of the press. Their collective efforts aim to raise awareness continuously and advocate for the establishment of local response units.
The event took place simultaneously in Benin City, Uromi, and Auchi. The LOTIP-R Cluster, comprising seven civil society organizations in Edo State, stands united in the fight against human trafficking. Notable members include Uromi Justice Development Peace and Caritas Initiatives (Uromi JDPCI), Justice Development and Peace Commission Auchi, Willi Johnson Foundation (WJF), Girls Power Initiative, Josemaria Escriva Foundation, and Ideal Resource and Development Centre, and the Edo State Taskforce Against Human Trafficking.
