The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons has commenced an investigation into a viral video alleging that a Nigerian mother from Edo State sexually exploited her three-year-old son on a live-streaming platform in exchange for virtual gifts from viewers.
The agency disclosed this in a statement shared on its official X page on Monday. NAPTIP in the post described the allegation as a grave case of child sexual abuse and exploitation punishable under Nigeria’s anti-trafficking laws.
The development followed a video circulated online by child rights advocate Justina Lawrence, who drew the attention of authorities to the disturbing content allegedly recorded during multiple livestream sessions.
“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.
“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 development, NAPTIP confirmed that the matter was being handled as a priority case under the provisions of the Trafficking in Persons (Prohibition) Enforcement and Administration Act.
“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 protecting children from abuse, exploitation, and trafficking, encouraging members of the public to continue to report suspected cases to appropriate authorities.
The incident has sparked widespread reactions online, with many Nigerians expressing outrage over the disturbing nature of the allegation and calling for swift intervention to safeguard the child.
Some users on X commended NAPTIP for responding promptly, noting the need for strong enforcement of laws protecting minors from digital exploitation.
A user, @Ada_eze, wrote, “If this allegation is confirmed, the child must be rescued immediately. Social media platforms should not become spaces where children are abused for financial gain.”
Another user, @TundeWrites, stated, “This case highlights the urgent need to regulate livestreaming platforms and protect vulnerable children from exploitation driven by online gifts and monetary incentives.”
Similarly, @AmakaSpeaks posted, “Authorities must ensure transparency in the investigation. Nigerians want to see justice served and the child placed in a safe environment.”
Child protection advocates have warned that the increasing monetisation of online content may create opportunities for abuse where vulnerable minors are involved, stressing the need for stronger awareness and enforcement mechanisms.
Post comments (0)