Rescued Libya Returnee Warns Nigerians: “Do Not Travel Through Dangerous Routes”
Mercy Oluwagbenga, a young Nigerian recently rescued from Libya, has issued a poignant warning to citizens against pursuing irregular migration through perilous routes.
In her account to the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM) in Abuja, she disclosed how she was enticed to Libya with deceptive assurances of a better life, only to
find herself trapped in contemporary slavery.
At just 20 years old, after leaving school to assist her unwell mother, she shared her harrowing experience of labored servitude for over a year without recompense, enduring mistreatment and exploitation.
With tears in her eyes, she recounted being imprisoned, stripped of her freedom, and even subjected to unauthorized medical procedures.
Oluwagbenga, hailing from Kabba in Kogi State, mourned the loss of her mother during this challenging time and earnestly urged Nigerian youth to avoid following the same path.
NIDCOM Chairman, Abike Dabiri-Erewa, commended her bravery and resilience, underscoring the fact that many individuals attempting irregular migration do not survive the journey.
She encouraged Nigerian youth to adopt safe and lawful means of travel and assured that Oluwagbenga would receive comprehensive rehabilitation and support to return to her studies through programs like NELFUND.
