Protection of victims of human trafficking in Nigeria

Abstract

Protection of victims of human trafficking is an important aspect in the fight against the menace of human trafficking. Aside from being vulnerable and  traumatised by the unpalatable experiences, they are more often than not the primary source of evidence in the prosecution of their traffickers. During  investigation and prosecution, victims are reluctant to cooperate because of fear of reprisals against them and members of their families. The aim of this  paper is to examine the protection accorded victims of human trafficking in the criminal justice system and finds that victims of human trafficking are not  adequately protected during investigation and prosecution. Consequently, they are unable to effectively reintegrate into the society and support the  criminal justice system as witnesses. The paper concludes that effective protection can be achieved through increased funding, informed courts and  other useful recommendations.