Boko Haram faction frees over 400 women and children from Ngoshe community after months in captivity

A faction of Boko Haram known as Jama’atu Ahlis-Sunna Lidda’Awati Wal-Jihad has released more than 400 women and children from Ngoshe community in Gwoza Local Government Area of Borno State.

The victims were freed on Saturday after spending several months in insurgent-controlled areas. A video obtained from the scene showed the released women and children seated on the ground, surrounded by armed military personnel, while individuals believed to be security officials addressed them.

A community leader expressed delight at the development, describing it as the outcome of sustained advocacy, negotiations, and humanitarian efforts. He disclosed that communications had been held prior to the release, with assurances that most of the captives would regain their freedom.

He also warned politicians against taking undue credit for the release, insisting that local advocacy groups had been actively involved in mediation efforts long before the event. He called on federal and state authorities to ensure proper screening, documentation, and rehabilitation of the rescued victims to facilitate their reintegration.

The release comes after the same faction had previously issued a 72-hour ultimatum to the Nigerian government, threatening to execute the captives. At the time, a group spokesperson had declared that negotiations had collapsed and that the deadline had expired.