Residents of Ngoshe community in Gwoza Local Government Area of Borno State, who were abducted by suspected Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists, have opened up about the trauma they endured while in captivity.
Survivors recount harrowing experiences
Naija News reports that the victims, mainly women and children, were kidnapped on March 3, 2026, before troops rescued hundreds of them in a recent military operation.
The rescued individuals are currently staying at the Pulka Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camp, where they said they survived only by the grace of God.
One of the victims, Zainab Ayuba, whose husband was reportedly killed during the attack, described her ordeal as “horrible and inhuman.”
According to Vanguard, she said:
“The experience is horrible and inhuman because I was seriously sexually abused while in captivity. I pray that even my enemies never fall into the hands of Boko Haram terrorists.”
Elderly captive says age may have spared him
Another survivor, 75-year-old Idris Mustapha, said he was treated differently from many of the other captives, possibly because of his age.
“I thank God and our security agencies for saving our lives. I was one of the fortunate ones because I was not abused or mistreated by the terrorists. Maybe it was because of my age,” he said.
Mustapha added that he was given food three times daily and was treated relatively comfortably compared to other captives.
Women and children endured hunger and hardship
Another rescued woman, who identified herself as Hauwa Yusuf, said hunger was one of the major challenges she faced in captivity.
She explained that captives were usually given only one meal a day, consisting mainly of guinea corn, maize, and powdered grains without soup.
Governor Zulum visits Pulka IDP camp
Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum visited Pulka on Monday, where he met with the rescued victims and assessed their condition.
The governor revealed that 357 persons were freed in the latest operation, while another 82 people had regained their freedom earlier in smaller groups.
The abductees were taken from Ngoshe, a border town in Gwoza LGA, following an attack by suspected Boko Haram insurgents earlier this year.
Zulum praises Tinubu, military, DSS and local security groups
Governor Zulum commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his efforts toward restoring peace and securing the release of abducted residents.
“I want to express my deepest appreciation, on behalf of the government and people of Borno State and the Gwoza community in particular, to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his efforts in restoring peace and stability in Borno State and across the country,” Zulum stated.
He also praised the Nigerian Armed Forces, the Office of the National Security Adviser, the Department of State Services (DSS), Civilian JTF, Forest Guards, vigilantes, and hunters for their roles in the rescue operation.
“These security agencies and local volunteers have contributed immensely to ensuring the release of the abducted men, women, and children,” he added.
Total of 434 captives now freed
Zulum said the latest operation brought the total number of freed captives to 434.
“We are here to celebrate with the Ngoshe community following the release of about 434 abducted women and children. About 360 were released two days ago, while others had regained freedom in the past few weeks,” he explained.
Government plans safe return to Ngoshe
The governor disclosed that the state government had released funds for the rehabilitation of the Ngoshe community.
According to him, reconstruction work is almost complete, while discussions are ongoing with residents willing to return home.
“The government has released millions of naira for the rehabilitation of Ngoshe. We are also working with the Nigerian military to establish arrangements that will ensure the safe and dignified return of those willing to go back,” Zulum said.
He further directed the distribution of food and non-food relief items to the rescued victims.
The freed residents are currently receiving medical treatment and psychological support at a government facility ahead of their reintegration into their communities.
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