Calls on European Union to curb human trafficking syndicates in Europe

The Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku Akpolokpolo, Ewuare II, Oba of Benin has called on the European Union (EU) to put measures in place to curb human trafficking syndicates in Europe, in order to tackle the scourge of human trafficking and illegal migration.

The monarch made the call, when a delegation of EU and the World Bank, led by the EU Ambassador, Ketil Karlsen paid His Royal Majesty a courtesy visit in the Palace.

The Oba of Benin said if there is no demand, there would be no supply, and also appealed to the Federal Government of Nigeria to make the nation’s borders tighter to prevent people from being trafficked abroad.

The monarch said government and the private sector should create job opportunities for youths to engage them meaningfully.

Oba Ewuare II assured the EU and World Bank delegation that the Palace would collaborate with the state taskforce on human trafficking to educate the people on the dangers inherent in human trafficking and illegal migration.

The head of delegation, EU Ambassador Ketil Karlsen said there was need to work together to end the scourge of human trafficking and illegal migration.

He commended the Oba for his roles, especially the pronouncement against human trafficking and illegal migration.

The Benin monarch also played host to the Association of Resident Doctors from the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH), led by its President, Dr. Franklin Emeka Osagie.

His Royal Majesty used the occasion to advise the doctors against incessant strike in the health sector, which, according to him affects the lives of Nigerians.

Addressing Oba Ewuare II, Dr. Osagie said they were in the Palace to inform His Royal Majesty that they would be hosting all Resident Doctors in Nigeria in May 2019, and solicited for royal blessings for the event to be successful.

Dr. Osagie told the Benin monarch that during the event, there would be free medical test for everyone, while they would also showcase the rich cultural heritage of Benin Kingdom.

He commended Oba Ewuare II for improving security in the Kingdom, youth empowerment and rehabilitation of victims of human trafficking through the Oba Ewuare II Foundation.