Freed residents of Ngoshe community in Gwoza Local Government Area of Borno State have shared disturbing accounts of their three-month captivity in the hands of terrorists, describing starvation, deaths and inhumane conditions during their ordeal.

The victims, who were recently reunited with their families, were among hundreds abducted during a March 2026 attack on the community.

Survivors Describe Harsh Living Conditions

One of the survivors, Halima Musa, said the captives survived mainly on guinea corn, which was provided by their abductors but cooked by the victims themselves.

She explained that food was limited to once a day, leaving them to endure long hours of hunger.

“We ate only guinea corn, once a day. If you ate around 2 p.m., you would have to wait until the next day before eating again. Sometimes, there was no soup,” she said.

According to her, the captives slept on bare floors in mountainous terrain and had limited access to water throughout their captivity.

Children Died During Captivity

Another freed captive disclosed that at least six children died while in captivity due to illness and poor living conditions.

“While in captivity, we lost six children — two boys and four girls. They died after falling sick,” she said.

Some of the victims also alleged that their abductors had a system of food distribution, suggesting possible supply networks supporting the group across different locations.

One source said they observed food being dropped and redistributed, raising suspicions about organised logistics behind the terrorists’ operations.

Mass Abduction and Release

Recall that about 360 people were abducted during the attack on Ngoshe on March 4, 2026, with women and children making up the majority of the victims.

Borno State Governor Babagana Umara Zulum confirmed that a total of 357 captives were recently released, while others had regained freedom in smaller batches over time.

According to the governor, the total number of those freed now stands at 434, following coordinated efforts involving security agencies and local vigilante groups.

Government and Security Response

Zulum commended President Bola Tinubu, the military, the Department of State Services (DSS), the Civilian Joint Task Force, forest guards, vigilantes and hunters for their roles in securing the victims’ release.

He also announced plans for the rehabilitation of Ngoshe community and support for displaced residents, including food and medical assistance for those recently freed.

The victims are currently undergoing medical evaluation and psychosocial support before being fully reintegrated into their communities.

The incident adds to growing concerns over insecurity in parts of Borno State, where communities continue to face repeated attacks despite ongoing military operations.