Boko Haram fighters, a faction of Jama’atu Ahlis-Sunna Lidda’Awati Wal-Jihad (JAS), have released a disturbing video showing 416 people they abducted from Ngoshe community in Gwoza Local Government Area of Borno State.
The victims are mostly women and children. In the video, they were seen pleading with the Nigerian government to accept the terrorists’ conditions so they can be released safely.
The video was reportedly made after a group known as the Borno South Youths Alliance requested proof that the abducted persons were still alive, as discussions were ongoing for their possible release.
In the footage, armed terrorists with heavy weapons surrounded the captives in an open area. Some of the gunmen had their faces covered while others did not. The victims were made to sit on the ground as they were filmed and asked questions about their identity and condition.
A terrorist spokesman, speaking in Hausa, claimed the group was showing the captives to prove they were alive and in good condition, saying they had not been harmed and were being treated according to their beliefs.
The abducted women, speaking during the recording, confirmed they were from Ngoshe and said they were alive alongside their children and other vulnerable people. They said some injured persons had received treatment, and they were being given food, shelter, and clothing. However, they stressed their emotional pain and worry over their families and the situation that led to their capture.
They also appealed directly to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima, Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum, and other political and community leaders to urgently intervene and help secure their return home. The women said they missed their families and wanted to return, adding that living in captivity was painful and unfamiliar.
Watch video here
