Rescued residents of Woro and Nuku communities in Kaiama Local Government Area of Kwara State have narrated their ordeal in captivity, revealing that about 13 children lost their lives while in the terrorists’ camp.
The survivors said the children, including newborn babies and minors, died as a result of the harsh conditions in the camp, where they were exposed to cold weather and severe deprivation.
The survivors spoke on Friday in Ilorin during their official handover to the Kwara State Government, following their rescue by security forces six months after Boko Haram-linked extremists attacked the rural communities on motorcycles on February 3.
Recounting their harrowing experience, one of the victims, Ameerah Saliu, disclosed that she assisted in delivering 11 pregnant women while in captivity.
Saliu said only about half of the babies delivered in the camp survived, attributing the deaths to the harsh weather conditions, hunger and inadequate feeding.
She added that some of the young women abducted during the attack were married off, while several young men were allegedly coerced into joining the terrorists.
She said the 12-member group endured severe hunger and deprivation throughout their time in captivity, although none of the women was sexually assaulted.
Another survivor, Hauwa Saliu, a wife of the Woro village head, also recounted the harsh conditions they faced while in the terrorists’ camp.
Receiving the victims, Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the successful operation, describing it as a demonstration of the Federal Government’s commitment to protecting lives and restoring peace in affected communities.
The governor also commended the combined security forces for their collaboration, bravery and commitment to strengthening peace and security in the state.
AbdulRazaq assured the victims of the state government’s continued support, rehabilitation and reintegration.
He disclosed that 46 of the rescued survivors were currently receiving medical treatment at Kwara State University.