The Place of Traditional Ethical Values in Curbing Human Trafficking and the Enhancement of Democratic Principles in Nigeria

Abstract

Policy discourses regarding human trafficking nowadays increasingly link trafficking in human beings with institutional lapses such as inadequate political commitment; non-existent national legislation against trafficking in human beings; absence of a judicial framework for the perpetrators and accomplices to be punished for their acts; corruption involving immigration, judicial, and law enforcement officers; and lack of political will. Adopting content analysis and the descriptive methodology, this chapter explores the different levels of analysis and the interplay between human trafficking and traditional ethical values. The chapter explores emerging intersections between today's dominant anti-trafficking discourses and the spaces meant to be filled by values and democratic principles. Within this context, the findings reveal that human trafficking, as a symptom of exploitation, dehumanization, and devaluation of human life is an intrinsic part of everyday life affecting the entire society and not something that is just relevant for a few victims.