Juliet Oladele, Reporting
A 45-year-old woman, Esther Samson, has appeared before an Ogba Magistrate Court in Lagos facing allegations of conspiracy, child trafficking, and forcing a 17-year-old girl into prostitution.
The prosecution alleges that Samson, alongside an accomplice who remains at large, took the teenager to the home of one Balikis Richard on Rufai Street, Shibiri Ojo, Lagos State, on 30 March 2026 at approximately 8.30am. It is claimed the pair then gave the 17-year-old victim, identified as Glory Richard, away for prostitution without the knowledge or consent of her parents.
According to court documents, the alleged offences date back to 28 March 2026, when the two suspects are said to have conspired to commit child trafficking – an act contrary to Section 411 of the Criminal Laws of Lagos State, 2015.
A second count states that on 30 March, they gave the minor for sexual exploitation, contravening Section 276(a) of the same laws. Both offences carry the possibility of several years’ imprisonment.
The matter came to light after information leaked and a report was made to the Gender Section of the Lagos State Police Command. Officers arrested Samson swiftly, but her alleged co-conspirator managed to evade capture and is now being sought by authorities.
Following an investigation, police prosecutors deemed the defendant culpable and brought her before the court.
Samson pleaded not guilty to both charges. In response, Prosecutor Inspector Lucky Ihiehie requested a hearing date, noting that the state needed time to prove its case.
Presiding Magistrate Mrs M.O. Tanimola granted the defendant bail on condition she provide two sureties. Both sureties must show proof of livelihood and evidence of tax payments, and their addresses will be verified by the court.
The case has been adjourned for further mention.
