Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, has lauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his role in securing the freedom of 434 residents of Ngoshe community, who were abducted over a year ago during a violent raid on the town.
Speaking in Pulka on Monday, Governor Zulum confirmed that the latest release comprises 357 persons, while approximately 82 others had regained their freedom spontaneously in smaller batches over the period since their abduction.
The victims were originally taken from Ngoshe, a border town in Gwoza Local Government Area of Borno State, following an attack by suspected Boko Haram insurgents early this year.
Zulum particularly praised President Tinubu for his personal intervention and commitment towards restoring peace, which he said accelerated the negotiation and rescue process.
“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 stated.
Zulum also extended commendations to the Nigerian military, the Department of State Services (DSS), and all other security agencies involved in the operation, acknowledging their professionalism and coordination.
“I also want to use this opportunity to commend the Nigerian Armed Forces, the office of the National Security Adviser, the Department of State Security and all other security agencies, including our gallant Civilian JTF, Forest Guards, Vigilante and Hunters, who have participated immensely in ensuring the release of these abducted men, women and children,” Zulum added.
He explained that while 357 captives walked free in the latest coordinated effort, other captives had been released in phases over the preceding months, bringing the total number of freed captives to 434.
“We are here to felicitate with 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 about other persons, totalling about 434,” Zulum explained.
According to the governor, “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 that are willing to return, we are working with the Nigerian military to establish institutional arrangements that will ensure their safe and dignified return.”
Zulum also directed the distribution of relief materials, comprising food and non-food items, to all the released persons as part of the immediate intervention.
The rescued individuals are currently receiving medical and psychological support in a government facility, after which they will be reintegrated into their communities.