After four long years of uncertainty and heartbreak, veteran Nigerian actress Jumoke George has finally reunited with her daughter, Adeola, who was trafficked to Mali under mysterious circumstances.
The emotional story, which first came to light through a heartfelt interview on the YouTube podcast Talk to B, hosted by actress Biola Adebayo, sparked national concern and action.
Jumoke George revealed during the interview that she had not seen or heard from Adeola in years. Her daughter’s sudden disappearance had left a painful void in her life.
Jumoke George cries out
According to Jumoke George, Adeola had been staying with her grandmother in Ibadan before her sudden departure. Details surrounding how she ended up in Mali remain unclear. George said she had no idea her daughter had left the country until much later. She believed her daughter had simply vanished without a trace.
The veteran actress broke down in tears as she described the pain of not knowing whether Adeola was alive or dead. She also expressed her frustration at not getting enough help or attention from the authorities when she first reported the case.
Public outcry sparks action
After the interview aired, it quickly went viral. Many Nigerians sympathised with George’s pain and demanded action. Actress Biola Adebayo, moved by the story, took it upon herself to help. She reached out to government officials and shared the details with the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM).
The Commission, led by its Chairman, Abike Dabiri-Erewa, took swift action. Working behind the scenes with relevant agencies, Dabiri-Erewa launched efforts to locate Adeola and bring her home.
Successful rescue and safe return
On Monday, May 20, 2025, Abike Dabiri-Erewa confirmed on social media that Adeola had returned safely to Nigeria. She posted the news on X (formerly Twitter), writing:
“Breaking! Adeola, daughter of popular actress Jumoke George, who cried out that she had not heard from her daughter in four years, is back home from Mali, where she was trafficked to. Just received her, with Biola Adebayo, who broke the story and Niyi Johnson. Details later.”
The post quickly gained attention online, with many expressing relief and joy over Adeola’s safe return.
Warm welcome at the airport
Adeola arrived in Nigeria to a warm reception. Biola Adebayo, actor Adeniyi Johnson, and Abike Dabiri-Erewa were at the airport to receive her. Photos and videos showed a visibly emotional reunion.
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Adebayo, who played a key role in raising awareness about the case, expressed gratitude to everyone who supported the rescue efforts. She thanked NIDCOM and other agencies involved in bringing Adeola home safely.
Ongoing investigations and next steps
While Adeola is now safe, questions remain. How was she trafficked to Mali? Who was responsible? And what happened during her time there?
Authorities have not released full details yet. However, NIDCOM has promised a thorough investigation. Dabiri-Erewa stated that the commission is working closely with law enforcement agencies to ensure justice is served and to prevent similar cases in the future.
She also emphasised the importance of public awareness about human trafficking. “Many young girls are being deceived and taken out of the country with false promises,” she said. “We must all work together to stop this.”
A mother’s relief
For Jumoke George, Adeola’s return brings a sense of peace she has long hoped for. In a brief statement, she thanked everyone who helped reunite her with her daughter. Though still shaken by the experience, she said she is now focused on helping Adeola heal and rebuild her life.
This case highlights the dangers of human trafficking and the power of speaking out. Thanks to one mother’s courage, public support, and quick government action, a lost daughter has returned home.
