In a decisive ruling, the Odumase Circuit Court in Ghana’s Eastern Region has sentenced 25-year-old Baba Issa Zakaria to 10 years in prison for trafficking young Nigerian women for prostitution.
Zakaria, an okada rider from Agomanya, was convicted after pleading guilty to luring Nigerian women to Lower Manya Krobo under false pretenses.
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According to police investigations, he housed his victims in various locations around Agomanya, exploiting them in commercial sex work.
Prosecutors, led by ASP Augustine K. Asante Kusi and Chief Inspector John Kwasi Brahene, revealed that Zakaria orchestrated the operation since 2024, managing WhatsApp groups to connect victims with clients from neighboring districts.
Also implicated in the case is Ella Elizabeth, a 26-year-old Nigerian trader, whose role is still under scrutiny. Authorities suspect other trafficked women remain in Agomanya, underscoring the challenges in dismantling such networks.
The case came to light following an assault report, which unraveled Zakaria’s illicit activities. Judge Kwesi Appiatse Abaidoo, presiding over the trial, described the crime as premeditated and exploitative, emphasizing the need for a strong deterrent.
Also implicated in the case is Ella Elizabeth, a 26-year-old Nigerian trader, whose role is still under scrutiny. Authorities suspect other trafficked women remain in Agomanya, underscoring the challenges in dismantling such networks.
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This conviction marks a step forward in Ghana’s fight against human trafficking, but experts warn that more needs to be done to address systemic vulnerabilities and protect victims.
