Justice Denied: Christy Gold Walks Free
Nigerian court gives convicted human trafficker option to pay fine instead of serving prison time
The big picture:
Christiana Uadiale — aka Christy Gold — was convicted of trafficking women in a high-profile Nigerian case linked to ICIJ’s Trafficking Inc. investigation. But instead of jail time, she may walk free by paying a fine of just $7,200.
“Justice was not served.”
— Angus Thomas, anti-trafficking activist
⚖️ What happened:
Gold was convicted on six counts of human trafficking and sentenced to:
- 6 concurrent 5-year prison terms — or
- Pay a total fine of 11 million naira (~$7,200)
- Restitution: 3 million naira (~$2,000) split between two survivors
“Giving me compensation will not do justice for me… What I was really expecting was prison.”
— Blessing, survivor
Why it matters:
The sentence:
- Undermines Nigeria’s anti-trafficking laws
- Sends a message that traffickers can buy their freedom
- Damages Nigeria’s global credibility
“This outcome makes a mockery of the system.”
— Angus Thomas
The image of impunity:
While evading justice, Gold posted glam shots online. Meanwhile, her victims lived with trauma.
“The fine she paid me is less than what I earned for her while being exploited.”
— Blessing
⚖️ Court’s rationale:
Judge Olubanjo said she offered the fine “reluctantly” to help fund restitution.
“A convict who is not incarcerated can better source funds to compensate victims.”
— Justice Olubanjo
Background:
Gold featured prominently in ICIJ and Reuters’ Trafficking Inc. exposé, which revealed a trafficking network that coerced African women into the UAE’s sex trade.
What’s next:
Nigeria’s anti-trafficking agency (NAPTIP) plans to appeal the sentence.
Bottom line:
Survivors don’t want payouts. They want justice.
This case reveals a grim reality: money may buy freedom — even in crimes of exploitation.
“Letting her go means more people will suffer.”
— Blessing