APPRAISAL OF TRAFFICKING IN PERSONS FOR ORGAN HARVESTING IN NIGERIA: LEGAL CHALLENGES AND STRATEGIC RECOMMENDATIONS

Trafficking in persons for organ harvesting is an emerging and complex issue in Nigeria, exacerbated by socioeconomic and socio-political vulnerabilities, weak law enforcement, and gaps in legal frameworks. This paper explores the current domestic and international framework concerning trafficking for organ harvesting; identifies the enforcement and legislative challenges that hinder effective combat against this crime; proposes strategic solutions to strengthen Nigeria’s legal and institutional capacities in addressing organ trafficking. It also examined organ trafficking in Africa and discussed two current landmark organ trafficking cases. The paper opines that despite the existence of the Trafficking in Persons (Prohibition) Enforcement and Administration Act, 2015 (as re-enacted) which is the primary legislation prohibiting organ harvesting in Nigeria, enforcement remains hampered by several factors including inadequate enforcement and institutional challenges, public perception and misunderstanding of the crime of organ harvesting, lack of public awareness and education and global and cross-border dimensions. While advocating for comprehensive reforms to close legal gaps, the paper proposes clearer definitions of trafficking for organ harvesting and stronger victim protection mechanisms. It further recommends improved law enforcement and institutional capacity, addressing socio-economic vulnerabilities, public awareness and education campaigns, changing public perception, enhancing cross-border and global cooperation This paper would contribute to the existing body of knowledge on human trafficking by focusing on the relatively understudied area of trafficking for organ harvesting in Nigeria which would improve the country’s response to this crime and enhance the protection of vulnerable individuals and contribute to the global fight against human trafficking.