Alimat Idowu, an Ibadan native living in Libya, shares a harrowing story: how her neighbour, Janet Titilayomi, allegedly abducted her two-year-old daughter, Michelle, and trafficked her to Italy. What follows is a candid account of trust betrayed, a mother’s fight to bring her child home, and the broader consequences of child trafficking and the vulnerability of migrant families.

The Promise of Kindness Turns to Betrayal

Context: Alimat Idowu moved to Libya seeking a better life for her family. She describes Janet Titilayomi as a trusted neighbour who often helped care for Michelle while she worked,  Janet lived in the same building and routinely babysat Michelle. The arrangement felt peaceful and reliable—a common scenario for migrant workers who rely on community support in unfamiliar territory.,  One ordinary day, Janet asked to take Michelle along, claiming she would bring the child to her workplace. Reassured by Janet’s familiarity and kindness, Idowu consented. She later learned that Janet had crossed the Mediterranean with her daughter to Italy—without her approval or knowledge.

Discovery: Idowu says she found out “just like that” that Michelle was in Europe, a journey that involved crossing the perilous Mediterranean Sea with a two-year-old.,  Janet allegedly told Idowu she was ungrateful and insisted she wanted to give the child a better life, claiming she had already paid for the travel. Idowu vehemently denies ever consenting to such an arrangement.,  The mother describes herself as exhausted, angry, and desperate. With limited legal recourse in Libya, she now faces the daunting task of navigating international channels to recover her child.

Reporter’s note: Idowu recounts her interactions with Nigerian authorities and Italian intermediaries who have offered assistance in seeking legal aid.

Potential avenues for action include:

• Contacting Nigerian government agencies or consulates responsible for migrant welfare and child protection.

• Engaging Italian police and international child-abduction organisations to verify the child’s status and location.

• Seeking DNA testing to confirm maternity if required, though Idowu is adamant about her certainty.

Risks highlighted: Migrant workers often face systemic vulnerabilities—overstretched social services, unclear legal jurisdictions, and limited access to timely legal support.

Idowu’s plea is direct: “Please, help me bring my child back.” She asks for support from Nigerian authorities, international partners, and anyone with influence to assist in locating Michelle and ensuring the child’s safe return.

This story underscores the human cost of child trafficking and the fragility of migrant families who depend on neighbours and informal networks for childcare.

It shines a light on how trust within migrant communities can be exploited, leading to life-altering consequences for children and families.

It raises critical questions about:

• Safeguards for migrant workers and their children.

• The effectiveness of cross-border cooperation in child-abduction cases.

• The need for accessible legal and consular support for Nigerians abroad.

The case calls for heightened vigilance and stronger systemic responses to prevent similar tragedies.

• If you have information about Michelle or Janet Titilayomi’s whereabouts, contact the appropriate authorities immediately.

• Share this story with Nigerian and Libyan authorities to advocate for protective measures for migrant families.

• Support organisations that assist migrant workers and victims of child trafficking with legal aid, repatriation, and psychosocial services.