The government in Taraba State has temporarily halted all beauty pageant events for six months due to allegations of human trafficking within the industry.
This decision was made by the state’s entertainment leaders, led by Hycienth Haruna, who addressed the press in Jalingo, the state capital, on Tuesday.
Haruna stated that this suspension is meant to give security agencies enough time to investigate the claims and eliminate any individuals or groups involved in unethical activities.
He assured the public that any person found guilty would face legal consequences, including a permanent ban from participating in the industry in the state.
The entertainment sector in Taraba has been marred by accusations circulating in both traditional and social media, which claim that young women involved in pageants are being exploited.
Haruna pointed out that several former pageant winners have reported threats, defamation, and emotional abuse after speaking out about their experiences.
He stressed that no woman’s pursuit of fame should lead to exploitation or harm.
To address the issue, the state leadership has formally petitioned the Commissioner of Police and the Director of the Department of State Services (DSS) to carry out an investigation.
Haruna called for victims and witnesses to step forward with reliable evidence and reassured them that their identities would be kept confidential.
This suspension will remain in place until the investigation is completed, and the leaders hope it will restore the integrity of the industry in the state.
Leave a Reply