Re-Envisioning Antihuman Trafficking Response in Nigeria Through an Anticorruption Lens

Human trafficking is viewed as a “high-profit-low-risk” venture where offenders often face few legal consequences, often due to corruption. The 4Ps (Prevention, Protection, Prosecution, and Partnership) of anti-human trafficking were examined to understand the impact of corruption. Using qualitative methods, sixty-one respondents, including survivors, local sex workers, and representatives from anti-human trafficking agencies, provided valuable insights into the adverse effects of corruption on each of the 4Ps. Corrupt practices, such as bribery, impersonation, misuse of donations, and collusion with traffickers, were identified among several anti-human trafficking agencies, including those in the criminal justice and non-governmental settings. Some state and community actors in transit countries were equally implicated as corrupt. Applying the INXIT – “Informal Exit” framework, this research shows how victims’ voices are limited and how they are often trapped by restricted protection and justice options due to corruption within anti-human trafficking efforts. The pervasive normalization of corruption, especially police corruption, is deeply concerning. To achieve SDG 16’s goal of strong institutions combating human trafficking effectively, the study recommends incorporating anticorruption measures into anti-trafficking strategies.