Concern is growing over the fate of hundreds of captives held by Boko Haram after 12 victims reportedly escaped in Borno State.
The escapees were part of 416 residents abducted from Ngoshe community in Gwoza. Their freedom followed a military operation that forced insurgents to abandon some captives while fleeing with others, leaving about 404 people still in captivity.
The insurgents had earlier issued a 72-hour ultimatum, demanding a ₦5 billion ransom and warning against any rescue attempt.
Meanwhile, at least 18 civilians, including farmers and firewood collectors, were killed in a fresh attack near Gwoza. Local sources said the victims were ambushed while working on their farms.
Confirming the incident, Mohammed Ali Ndume described the killings as shocking and unfortunate, noting that the victims were his constituents.
In a related development, troops under Operation Hadin Kai killed 54 insurgents within two days while repelling coordinated attacks in Borno State. Several weapons, including rifles, machine guns, and rocket-propelled grenades, were recovered.
Reacting to the situation, Abdul Ahmed Ningi blamed Nigeria’s persistent insecurity on leadership failure, stating that political interests have been prioritised over national safety.
He called for drastic measures, including setting aside politics temporarily to address insecurity.
The House of Representatives Nigeria has also urged the federal government to deploy more troops and resources to affected areas, warning that continued attacks and mass abductions could escalate into a major humanitarian crisis.
