African bishops decry Libya slave trade

African bishops decry Libya slave trade

A trio of Nigerian bishops condemned the enslavement of Nigerians who travelled to Libya for work, calling the practice a horrific abuse of human dignity.

Bishop Joseph Bagobiri of Kafanchan, retired Archbishop Alaba Job of Ibadan and retired Bishop Julius Adelakun of Oyo called on the Nigerian government to act on behalf of Nigerian nationals in Libya and elsewhere who have been victimised by modern-day slave traders. They also suggested the government discourage Nigerians from traveling to other countries for work because of dangers posed by the illicit labour market.

Their comments came after Nigerian officials had repatriated 3,000 Nigerians from Libya following reports of inhumane treatment in the North African nation.