434 Ngoshe captives regain freedom after one year, Zulum lauds Tinubu, security agencies

NO fewer than 434 residents of Ngoshe community in Gwoza Local Government Area of Borno State abducted during an insurgent attack on the border town over a year ago, have regained their freedom.

The state governor, Professor Babagana Zulum, disclosed this on Monday during a visit to Pulka, where he said 357 of the victims were released in the latest effort, while others had regained their freedom earlier in phases.

The governor attributed the development to the intervention of President Bola Tinubu and the coordinated efforts of security agencies and local volunteers.

“I want to express my appreciation, on behalf of the government and people of the state and Gwoza community in particular, to President Tinubu for all the efforts he has been making to ensure peace and stability not only in Borno, but across the country,” Zulum said.

He also commended the Nigerian Armed Forces, the Office of the National Security Adviser, the Department of State Services (DSS), Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), forest guards, vigilantes and hunters for their roles in securing the release of the victims.

According to the governor, the 357 persons recently freed were part of the 434 captives, who had returned in batches over the past weeks.

“We are here to rejoice with the Ngoshe community following the release of the abducted women and children. Those released recently, together with others who returned earlier, bring the total number to 434,” he stated.

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Zulum said the state government had released funds for the rehabilitation of Ngoshe, adding that reconstruction work in the community was nearing completion.

He said discussions were ongoing with residents willing to return, noting that the government, in collaboration with the military, was putting measures in place to ensure their safe and dignified resettlement.