Following recent allegations of negligence in handling human trafficking cases, particularly from controversial social media activist VeryDarkMan, the Chairperson of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM), Abike Dabiri-Erewa, has received support from anti-human trafficking advocate and Cameroon-based publisher Ismaila Adegbola.
Adegbola, who leads the group Advocates Against Human Trafficking & Child Exploitation, urged critics—especially VeryDarkMan—to be fair in their assessment of Dabiri-Erewa’s efforts.
He highlighted her consistent commitment to addressing human trafficking and protecting Nigerians abroad, noting that her track record speaks for itself.
The controversy began when VeryDarkMan issued a one-week ultimatum to Dabiri-Erewa, demanding urgent action to rescue children allegedly trafficked to the Ivory Coast.
In response, Dabiri-Erewa dismissed the accusations as “misinformed and ignorant,” defending NIDCOM’s role and stating that such complex issues require coordination with multiple agencies.
The exchange has sparked a heated debate online, with Nigerians divided over where the responsibility lies for ensuring the safety and repatriation of citizens stranded overseas.
Adegbola emphasised that while it is important to hold public officials accountable, it is equally vital to recognize those who have consistently shown dedication to tackling human trafficking and protecting the rights of Nigerians in the diaspora.
He said, “Let’s focus on solutions, not blame; it is the responsibility of everybody to come out in unity in the fight against human trafficking,” said Adegbola.
“It is truly disheartening to witness the recent confrontation between social media activist Verydarkman and Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairperson of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), especially on an issue as sensitive and heartbreaking as human and child trafficking in Côte d’Ivoire.”
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“Last year, I embarked on an investigative mission to Côte d’Ivoire to document the harsh realities faced by many of our children and young girls trapped in modern slavery. What I encountered was devastating, and I believe this issue demands more than outrage — it requires strategic action, unity, and compassion.
“While Verydarkman may be passionate about justice, I must strongly caution against the tone and words used towards Hon. Abike Dabiri. From my experience, she has shown consistent concern for the welfare of Nigerians abroad. I vividly remember her swift and emotional response when I notified her office about the crisis in Côte d’Ivoire. She was deeply saddened and encouraged me to engage NAPTIP for further intervention. Though my repeated visits to NAPTIP were fruitless — a matter that must be addressed within that agency — it would be unfair to place the blame solely on her.
“I must also commend the Nigerian community and the Nigerian embassy in Côte d’Ivoire for their resilience and efforts so far in tackling this issue. They have shown leadership, compassion, and commitment in the face of a difficult situation.
“Let us remember: this is not a fight for one person or agency alone. This is our collective responsibility. It is time to channel our energies into meaningful partnerships. We must raise awareness, empower vulnerable communities, and demand reform at all institutional levels.”
