Author Calls For Focus On Boy-Child Trafficking, Decries ‘Japa’ Syndrome

American-Nigerian author Gbenga Sokefun has shed light on an often-overlooked aspect of human trafficking: the exploitation of African male children.

In his recent novel, “Adigun,” Sokefun delves into the dark world of traffickers who prey on the dreams and vulnerabilities of young boys, driven by the harsh realities of poverty and inadequate opportunities in Africa.

Sokefun, speaking with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), on Sunday, decried the lack of attention given to the trafficking of male children compared to the focus on female victims.

He argues that the “pressure of poverty and the inherent psychological damage of colonialism” creates a fertile ground for traffickers to exploit young boys, often luring them with promises of a better life in Europe or America.

Sokefun condemned African leaders for fostering an environment that encourages human trafficking.

Sokefun highlighted the grim realities of human trafficking and criticized the lack of attention paid to the trafficking of boy-children compared to the global focus on girl-child trafficking. He emphasized that the continent’s governance and the aftermath of colonialism have facilitated the emergence of a continent where escaping through human trafficking appears as an alluring option.

“Trafficking of the African male child has received far less attention, despite its existence,” Sokefun lamented, attributing this discrepancy to the pressure of poverty and the enduring psychological impact of colonialism.

He pointed out that these circumstances have led to a surge in the trade of African boys and men, particularly in narcotics smuggling, with perpetrators exploiting their dreams of a better life elsewhere.

“The African child’s aspirations have become indistinguishable from the desire to reach the Western world,” stated Sokefun, outlining how this desire has propelled his motivation to write “Adigun,” published by Build Universes. The novel aims to uncover the underlying evils of trafficking while celebrating the beauty of various Nigerian cultures.

Expressing concern about the exploitation of young African boys in drug trafficking, Sokefun stressed the urgent need for national reorientation, education, and enlightenment against male child trafficking. He urged for heightened awareness about the trafficking of boys, emphasizing that they, too, are victims of trafficking, often becoming drug barons and criminals.

Addressing the issue of Nigerians seeking opportunities abroad, Sokefun highlighted the deceptive allure painted about leaving Nigeria for perceived greener pastures. He encouraged a shift in focus towards developing good leadership across states in Nigeria to dissuade citizens from seeking life outside the continent.

Sokefun expressed confidence in President Bola Tinubu’s potential to address the challenges faced by Nigerians pursuing opportunities abroad, citing Tinubu’s experiences both within and outside the country. He urged for a reversal of the prevalent ‘Japa syndrome’ and the creation of a conducive environment to discourage mass exodus from Nigeria.