By Harry Awurumibe, Editor Abuja Bureau
An Art critic and Chairman of Abuja Writers Forum, Dr. Emman Usman Shehu has given kudos to journalist cum author, Peter Iorter for coming out with a new novel, ‘The Arrival of Leah’, which is targeted at fighting trafficking of young women within and outside Nigeria.
Shehu who was the Book Reviewer at the public presentation of the novel Thursday at NUJ House, Utako, Abuja, commended the author for using the book to highlight the evil of human trafficking and prostitution in the society.
According to him, “the trade of human beings especially young African girls into prostitution in Europe has become a scourge”.
He said the multi- dimensional nature of the situation is such that it is the third most common crime after drug trafficking and economic fraud.
Shehu however said, “Iorter’s novella is plot driven and therefore at every turn the characters are faced with choices in which in the context of this narrative sometimes happen too quickly or rather conveniently”
He therefore recommended the book for the public, pointing out that the author sends out a handful of positive messages about journalism, the fight against human trafficking and also debunks a misconception about Iorter’s native Tiv hospitality towards visitors.
Meanwhile, the Managing Director of African Independent Television (AIT) Dr. (Mrs.) Oluwatosin Dokpesi who was the Chairman of the event commended the author and offered him the television station’s platform to explain the importance of his new book.
Also, Ms. Nuhu Yachat and Mrs. Adekunle Sinmilade who represented the Regional Director, UNESCO and Director General of NAPTIP both commended the author for coming out with a new novel that exposed the evil of human trafficking and prostitution.
Speaking after the event, Peter Iorter expressed his gratitude for those who came for the book presentation and revealed that the novel is his contribution in the fight against human trafficking and prostitution amongst the youth.
