Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum, has commended President Bola Tinubu for his role in securing the release of 434 residents of Ngoshe community who were abducted during a violent raid by insurgents.
Key Highlights:
- Babagana Zulum credited Bola Tinubu for securing the release of 434 abducted Ngoshe residents.
- The victims were kidnapped during an insurgent attack on Ngoshe in Gwoza Local Government Area.
- Security agencies, the military, CJTF, vigilantes, and hunters assisted in the rescue efforts.
- The state government is rehabilitating Ngoshe and planning the safe return of residents.
- Released captives are receiving relief materials, medical care, and psychosocial support.
Speaking on Monday in Pulka, Gov. Zulum said the latest batch of freed captives comprised 357 men, women and children, while about 82 others had regained their freedom in smaller groups over the past several months, bringing the total number of released persons to 434.
The victims were abducted from Ngoshe, a border community in Gwoza Local Government Area of Borno State, following an attack by suspected Boko Haram insurgents.
The governor attributed the successful release of the captives to the commitment and intervention of President Tinubu, whom he praised for his efforts in restoring peace and stability in Borno State and across the country.
“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 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,” Governor Zulum said.
He also lauded the office of the national security adviser, the military, the Department of State Services (DSS), and other security agencies for their roles in facilitating the captives’ release.
According to him, members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), forest guards, vigilantes and local hunters also contributed significantly to the operation.
Governor Zulum explained that while about 357 captives were released in the latest coordinated effort, others had regained freedom in phases over recent weeks and months.
“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 other persons, totalling about 434,” he said.
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The governor disclosed that the state government has released millions of naira for the rehabilitation of Ngoshe community, noting that reconstruction work was nearing completion.
He added that consultations were ongoing with residents willing to return to the community, while the government was working closely with the military to establish security arrangements that would guarantee their safe and dignified return.
As part of immediate support measures, Governor Zulum directed the distribution of food and non-food relief materials to all the released captives.
The rescued individuals are currently receiving medical care and psychosocial support at a government facility before their eventual reintegration into their communities.
