A 28-year-old Nigerian woman, Eniola Isaac, who was trafficked to Iraq under false pretenses, is set to return to Nigeria today following the intervention of officials from the Nigerian mission in Jordan, which also oversees Iraq.
The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) announced the development in a statement on Thursday via its official X handle, revealing that Isaac’s return comes after nearly two years of enduring severe abuse, physical assault, and mistreatment at the hands of her employer in Iraq.
Reports indicate that Isaac was lured to Iraq with false promises of better opportunities but was instead subjected to inhumane conditions. She eventually sought help from Nigerian authorities, pleading for her safe return to avoid further harm or potential death.
NiDCOM emphasized that Isaac’s case highlights the growing issue of human trafficking involving Nigerians deceived into traveling to Iraq under the guise of employment or improved living conditions.
The commission also disclosed ongoing investigations into another case involving a Nigerian who traveled to Iraq for work as a caregiver but died under suspicious circumstances. The Nigerian government has requested an autopsy to determine the cause of death.
NiDCOM further cautioned Nigerians against falling victim to unscrupulous agents who lure individuals to Iraq with false promises, often exposing them to slavery, exploitation, or prostitution.
The commission reiterated its commitment to ensuring the safety of Nigerians abroad and called for vigilance against trafficking networks targeting vulnerable citizens.
