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Freed captives from Ngoshe community in Gwoza Local Government Area of Borno State have recounted the pain, abuse and deprivation they suffered during months in captivity after being abducted by suspected Boko Haram and ISWAP insurgents.
The victims, mostly women and children, are among the 434 people who have regained freedom since the attack on the border community on March 3, 2026. While 357 captives were released in the latest operation, others had earlier regained freedom in smaller batches.
Speaking at the Pulka Internally Displaced Persons camp, one of the survivors, Zainab Ayuba, narrated how the insurgents killed her husband before taking her into captivity.
“The experience is horrible and inhuman, because I was seriously molested while in captivity. I pray that even my enemies do not fall prey to Boko Haram terrorists,” she said.
Another victim, Hauwa Yusuf, described the severe hardship faced by many captives, saying hunger was a daily reality throughout their ordeal.
According to her, most of the food provided consisted of guinea corn, maize and powdered grains, often without soup or other supplements, leaving many victims struggling to survive.
In contrast, 75-year-old Idris Mustapha said he was fortunate to have escaped the harsh treatment experienced by many others.
“I thank God and our security agencies for securing our lives. As for me, I am one of the lucky ones because I was not molested or treated badly by the terrorists, maybe because of my age. They gave me food three times a day and I felt comfortable,” he said.
The survivors’ accounts emerged as Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum visited the freed captives on Monday and commended the efforts that led to their release.
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“I want to express my deepest appreciation, on behalf of the government and people of Borno State and Gwoza community in particular, to the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Nigerian Armed Forces, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for all the efforts that he has been making in ensuring the return of peace and stability not only to Borno State but to the entire country,” Zulum said.
The governor also praised the military, security agencies and local volunteer groups for their contributions to the operation.
“I also want to use this opportunity to commend the Nigerian Armed Forces, the Office of the National Security Adviser, the Department of State Services and all other security agencies, including our gallant Civilian JTF, Forest Guards, Vigilantes and Hunters, who have participated immensely in ensuring the release of these abducted men, women and children,” he added.
Providing an update on the rescue efforts, Zulum said the number of released captives had risen steadily over recent weeks.
“We are here to felicitate with the Ngoshe community following the release of the abducted women and children numbering about 434. What we saw this morning is about 360 released two days ago, but some two to three weeks ago we also received others, bringing the total to about 434,” he explained.
Zulum said the state government had already released funds for the rehabilitation of Ngoshe community and was working with security agencies to facilitate the safe return of residents willing to go back.
“Government has released millions of naira to rehabilitate the Ngoshe community. So far, the work is nearly complete. We are also interfacing with the community about their return to Ngoshe. Those willing to return will do so under arrangements that guarantee their safety and dignity,” he said.
The rescued victims are currently receiving medical care, psychological support and relief materials before their eventual reintegration into their communities.
