Anxiety Mounts Over 404 Captives as 12 Escape Boko Haram in Borno

Tension is rising over the fate of hundreds of abducted residents in Borno State after 12 captives reportedly escaped from Boko Haram, leaving 404 others still in captivity as a 72-hour ultimatum issued by the insurgents expired without any official response.

The victims were among 416 people abducted during a March 4 attack on Ngoshe community in Gwoza Local Government Area. The terrorists had demanded a ₦5 billion ransom from federal and state authorities, warning against any military rescue attempt.

Sources said the 12 escapees fled during a military operation that forced the insurgents to retreat from one of their hideouts. The group, made up of 10 women and two men, is now safe in a nearby town. However, concerns remain high for those still being held.

Meanwhile, violence persists in the region. At least 18 people, including farmers and firewood collectors, were killed in a fresh ambush near Gwoza. Local sources said the attackers targeted civilians working on their farms ahead of the rainy season. Senator Mohammed Ali Ndume confirmed the killings, describing the incident as tragic and deeply troubling.

In a separate development, troops of Operation Hadin Kai recorded significant gains against insurgents, killing 54 Boko Haram and ISWAP fighters in two days. The military also recovered a large cache of weapons and ammunition during operations in northern Borno. Two soldiers were injured, while an armoured vehicle was damaged.

Amid the ongoing crisis, Senator Abdul Ahmed Ningi criticised Nigeria’s leadership, blaming persistent insecurity on political distractions and lack of decisive action. He called for urgent reforms and suggested suspending political activities temporarily to focus on security challenges.

Similarly, the House of Representatives has urged the Federal Government to deploy more troops and resources to troubled areas in Kaduna, Borno, and Yobe states. Lawmakers warned that continued attacks, mass abductions, and displacement could escalate into a major humanitarian crisis if not addressed swiftly.

In Adamawa State, Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri visited communities affected by another Boko Haram attack that left nine people dead, pledging continued support for victims and efforts to restore peace.

However, a proposal to suspend political campaigns in parts of the country due to insecurity has drawn criticism. The Yoruba Ronu Leadership Forum described the move as politically motivated, warning it could undermine opposition parties and democratic participation.

As security concerns deepen, Nigerians continue to call for stronger action to protect lives and restore stability across affected regions.