High-Profile Dubai Human Trafficker Captured in Abuja: What It Means

From Dubai to Abuja: The Arrest of a Notorious Human Trafficker

On December 31, 2024, the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) apprehended Uadiale Christiana Jacob, also known as Christy Evan Osagie or Christy Gold, at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja upon her arrival from Dubai. Jacob, a convicted leader of an international human trafficking syndicate, had been evading Nigerian authorities for over five years.

Jacob was initially arrested by the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) in October 2020 for trafficking underage Nigerian girls to Dubai for forced prostitution. After being granted bail by the Federal High Court in Asaba, Delta State, she absconded to Dubai, leading to her trial and conviction in absentia on March 21, 2024. Her sentencing was pending her re-arrest.

Her arrest was facilitated by NAPTIP’s collaboration with various agencies, including the Ministry of Justice, INTERPOL Nigeria, the National Intelligence Agency (NIA), and the NIS.

Jacob’s syndicate was notorious for recruiting and exploiting young Nigerian girls in the Middle East, particularly in the United Arab Emirates. Several accomplices, such as Michael Nduka, Osas Wiseman, Vivian, and a certain Prophet John in Lagos, remain at large.

Jacob is currently in NAPTIP’s custody, awaiting sentencing for her crimes. Her arrest underscores Nigeria’s commitment to combating human trafficking and bringing perpetrators to justice.