Human trafficking court sentence sends Goodness Daniel to jail in Awka after a shocking verdict finds her guilty and orders restitution to the victim

The human trafficking court sentence delivered in Awka has sent 44-year-old Goodness Daniel to five years in prison or a ₦2 million fine for trafficking a person.

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The High Court gave its verdict on 27 June 2025 under Section 21 of the Trafficking in Persons Act.

Daniel was charged with buying and selling a human being.

The case was prosecuted by the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons, NAPTIP. She was arraigned on 9 July 2024 and stood trial over several months.

Justice Peace Otti found her guilty and passed a strong sentence.

“Her actions showed no regard for human life or dignity. This punishment is both deserved and necessary,” the judge said in court.

Beyond the prison term or fine, the court ordered Daniel to pay ₦2.6 million in restitution to the victim. The victim also appeared as a witness, providing critical testimony that helped secure the conviction.

NAPTIP welcomed the outcome as a breakthrough in the fight against human trafficking.

A spokesperson said, “This is a victory for justice and a message to traffickers that the law is watching.”

The case presented clear evidence that Daniel was involved in human trafficking.

Witnesses and documents confirmed her role in the offence, making the decision straightforward for the court.

Restitution to the victim highlights the court’s attention to justice beyond punishment.

The money is intended to support the survivor’s recovery and future well-being.

Observers in Anambra State say the ruling is timely and significant.

Legal analysts view it as proof that local courts are ready to enforce anti-trafficking laws with full force.

The ruling also reflects changes in how Nigeria addresses trafficking. Stronger legal tools and improved coordination between agencies are now producing better outcomes.

The bravery of the victim in testifying was vital.

Her testimony gave a full account of what happened and allowed the court to act without hesitation.

With more convictions like this one, trust in the legal system is growing.

Survivors are more likely to come forward when they see traffickers held accountable in court.

This case strengthens NAPTIP’s role as the lead agency against trafficking.

Their increased training, awareness, and partnership efforts are making it harder for traffickers to operate.

Justice Otti’s sentence is seen as a model ruling.

It balances punishment with restitution and will likely serve as a reference for future cases of this kind.

Daniel’s conviction shows that trafficking is not just a federal concern.

State courts now have both the power and the will to deliver justice where it’s needed.

Rights advocates say this outcome sends a loud warning to others involved in trafficking.

The consequences are now real, and the courts are prepared to act decisively.

This verdict is expected to encourage more survivors to speak out.

With clear legal backing and agency support, victims can now expect real protection and justice.

The High Court’s actions have brought closure to one victim and set a strong example for the future.

Also read: INTERPOL Rescues 46 Ghanaian Trafficking Victims, Arrests 7 Suspects in Nigeria

Justice, it seems, is no longer delayed for those targeted by traffickers.