Boko Haram Video Shows 416 Abducted Ngoshe Residents, Appeals for Rescue Intensify

Boko Haram Video Shows 416 Abducted Ngoshe Residents, Appeals for Rescue Intensify

By Tada Jutha, Maiduguri

A faction of Boko Haram, identified as Jama’atu Ahlis-Sunna Lidda’Awati Wal-Jihad (JAS-AWJ), has released a video showing hundreds of abducted residents from the Ngoshe community in the Gwoza Local Government Area of Borno State, sparking fresh concern over the fate of civilians in insurgency, hit areas.

The footage, which surfaced on Friday, features dozens of captives, mostly women and children—while a smaller number of men appear separated from their families. The video, said to be over six minutes long, was reportedly recorded at the request of a mediation group, the Borno South Youths Alliance (BOYA).

In the clip, a spokesperson for the insurgent group claimed that the abductees are alive and being treated humanely. He stated that the recording was intended to address growing public anxiety and provide proof of life for families and authorities.

“We are responding to calls for clarity about their condition,” the speaker said, insisting that the captives have not been subjected to abuse. He added that the group’s actions were guided by their interpretation of religious principles.

The camera was then turned toward some of the victims, including a woman who identified herself as one of those taken during the recent attack on Ngoshe. She said they were alive but living in distress, expressing deep concern about their families back home.

“We are grateful that we are still alive, but we are worried about our relatives who do not know our condition,” she said. “We are pleading with the government and all leaders to come to our aid so we can return home.”

She also mentioned that some of the abductees had received basic care, including food and medical attention, but stressed that their situation remains difficult as they long to reunite with their loved ones.

The Borno South Youths Alliance, which claimed to have been engaging the insurgents in mediation efforts, confirmed that 416 individuals are currently in captivity. The group said the figure was obtained after days of dialogue and humanitarian appeals.

In a statement, the group’s president, Samaila Kaigama, said the number represents a more accurate account than earlier reports, which he noted had underestimated the scale of the abduction.

He added that efforts are ongoing behind the scenes to secure the release of the victims, calling for sustained support from authorities and the public.

The latest development has once again drawn attention to the persistent threat posed by insurgent groups in parts of Borno State, particularly in communities like Ngoshe that have repeatedly come under attack.

Security experts say the release of such videos is often aimed at drawing attention, shaping narratives, or opening channels for negotiation, even as families of the victims continue to wait anxiously for their safe return.