The Network Against Corruption and Trafficking (NACAT) has sounded a critical warning to Nigerian students about the rising threats of sextortion and human trafficking, stressing the severe emotional, financial, and social consequences. Speaking at Baze University in Abuja during their 6th Career Week, Stanley Ugagbe, NACAT’s Operations Manager, emphasized the importance of being vigilant in digital spaces and urged students to report cases of online harassment and sextortion before it leads to long-term mental health issues.
Drawing attention to the global case of the Ogoshi brothers, Ugagbe shared the tragic story of 17-year-old Jordan DeMay, who committed suicide after being blackmailed by the sextortionists. The FBI’s investigation traced the operation back to Nigeria, resulting in the brothers receiving 210-month prison sentences. Ugagbe highlighted this as an example of the far-reaching consequences of sextortion.
He also warned about the prevalence of trafficking in Nigeria, including sex, labor, and child trafficking, noting that victims often suffer physical and emotional abuse, forced labor, and family separation. NACAT recently rescued a young Nigerian woman trafficked to Oman, bringing to light the real dangers of this practice.
In July 2024, Meta removed 63,000 Instagram accounts in Nigeria due to sextortion-related activities, further showing the urgency of taking preventive measures online. Ugagbe urged students to be cautious with online relationships, verify identities, and avoid sharing sensitive content to stay safe.
