The Edo State Migration Agency has officially kicked off a new initiative aimed at combating street prostitution, deploying its OS (Operation Safe) Squad to Ihama Road, GRA, in Benin City.
The operation is part of a broader effort to address human trafficking, prostitution, and other related social issues affecting the state.The move comes as part of the state government's ongoing commitment to tackling the negative impact of street-based sex work, which has been a persistent challenge in certain urban areas. With the intervention of the OS Squad, the state authorities hope to reduce the number of individuals engaged in street prostitution, offering both enforcement and rehabilitation options.
The OS Squad, a special task force assembled by the Edo State Migration Agency, was seen patrolling key areas of the city, engaging with individuals involved in street-level sex work. The aim is to provide support to those affected while cracking down on criminal elements exploiting vulnerable women and men involved in such activities.
Speaking on the initiative, the head of the Migration Agency, Mrs. Mary Okoro, emphasized the importance of eradicating street prostitution as part of the state's broader strategy to safeguard the rights and dignity of its citizens. "This is not just about enforcement. It is about offering support and pathways to a better life for those who have fallen into this dangerous trade," Okoro said.
The campaign also involves providing outreach services, including counseling, legal aid, and vocational training, to those looking to exit the street-based sex work industry. Authorities have indicated that the next phase of the initiative will include awareness programs targeting at-risk communities and collaborations with NGOs to provide sustainable solutions for those affected.
Residents of Benin City have expressed mixed reactions, with some commending the initiative as a much-needed intervention, while others raise concerns about the effectiveness of simply enforcing laws without addressing the root causes of prostitution, such as poverty, unemployment, and lack of education.
As the operation progresses, the Edo State government continues to emphasize the need for community involvement and cooperation in making the campaign a success.
