The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) has launched an investigation into a viral video alleging that a woman from Edo State exploited her three-year-old son on a live-streaming platform in exchange for virtual gifts.
The agency disclosed this in a statement shared on its official X page on Monday, describing the allegation as a serious case of child abuse and exploitation punishable under Nigeria’s anti-trafficking laws.
The development followed a video circulated online by child rights advocate Justina Lawrence, who alerted authorities to the disturbing content allegedly recorded during multiple livestream sessions.
Lawrence called for immediate intervention to ensure the safety of the child and bring those responsible to justice.
“This is not content creation; this is abuse happening in real time. A three-year-old child is being exposed to explicit acts on a livestreaming app where viewers send gifts.
“This is deeply troubling and demands immediate action from the appropriate authorities to protect the child and prevent further harm,” Lawrence said.
She further urged government officials and relevant agencies to act swiftly.
“I am calling on the Edo State Government and the Office of the First Lady to urgently intervene in this matter.”
The child’s safety must be prioritised, and those responsible must be investigated and prosecuted according to the law,” she added.
Reacting to the report, NAPTIP confirmed that the case is being handled with urgency under the Trafficking in Persons (Prohibition) Enforcement and Administration Act.
“NAPTIP’s Cybersecurity Response Team is actively investigating this reported case of child sexual abuse and exploitation involving a minor on a live-streaming platform.
“We are treating it as a matter of urgent priority under the Trafficking in Persons (Prohibition) Enforcement and Administration Act, including provisions on child sexual exploitation and online abuse.
“Evidence is being secured for potential prosecution of all perpetrators. The safety and protection of the child remain paramount. Members of the public are encouraged to report similar incidents through our official channels,” the agency stated.
NAPTIP reiterated its commitment to safeguarding children from abuse, exploitation, and trafficking, while urging the public to report suspected cases through the appropriate channels.
