The Benin Writers Society has lauded the effort of the Director General of the State Edo State Migration Agency Chief Lucky Agazuma for the rescue of Godstime Uwoghiren who was said to have been poisoned in Bukina Faso and left for death.
Uwoghiren was received at the Benin by family members, officials of the EDMA amid cultural dances as others present expressed joy with Chief Agazuma and Edo state Governor Monday Okpeholo.
In his address, Hon. Chief Agazuma expressed gratitude to the Edo State Government, the Federal Government of Nigeria, and international partners for their swift response and support.
“The government of Edo State, under the leadership of our Governor, Sen Monday Okpebholo the Akpako rescue , has shown that the lives of Edo sons and daughters matter. No matter how far traffickers take them, we are determined to bring them back home. This rescue mission is proof of that promise.
We thank His Excellency Sen Monday Okpebholo, the executive governor of edo state, the Federal Government of Nigeria, and all local and international organizations who partnered with us to make this return safe and successful.”
Chief Agazuma also spoke openly about the challenges of the mission, from diplomatic barriers and limited resources, to the trauma victims carried and the resistance of traffickers. Despite these hurdles, he stressed EDMA’s unwavering commitment not only to bring Edo indigenes back but to help them heal and rebuild their lives through proper reintegration.
Under Chief Agazuma’s leadership, EDMA has been central to Edo’s fight against human trafficking and irregular migration. Its mandate includes:
Rescuing and repatriating Edo citizens trafficked abroad.
Rehabilitating and reintegrating returnees with psychosocial support, skills training, and business empowerment.
Raising awareness through the S³ model (“See it, Say it, Sort it”) and guiding returnees through the R³ model (“Readmit, Rehabilitate, Reintegrate”).
Working with embassies, NGOs, faith leaders, and law enforcement to dismantle trafficking networks.
The Benin Writers Society hailed Chief Agazuma not just as a leader but as a symbol of resilience and compassion, one whose work continues to give voice to the voiceless and restore dignity to Edo people who have suffered at the hands of traffickers.
In closing, Chief Agazuma offered a heartfelt warning and encouragement
Human trafficking has destroyed too many lives and stolen the dreams of our youth. To the people of Edo, I say: do not fall prey to traffickers’ false promises. The path they show is filled with danger and sorrow. Let us build our hope here at home. Together, we will end this scourge.
The welcome of Hon. Chief Lucky Agazuma was more than a reception, it was a celebration of courage, a call to unity, and a renewed commitment to the fight against human trafficker
