Confirming the return of nine women out of the 102 initially reported missing, the Borno State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) dispelled abduction claims by Boko Haram terrorists. No ransom was paid for their release, stated Dr. Barkindo Saidu, Director-General of Borno SEMA.
Dr. Saidu, speaking to The PUNCH on Sunday, dismissed earlier reports of abduction, asserting that the women merely lost their way while gathering firewood in the bush near Gamboru-Ngala. Despite conflicting accounts of the number abducted, with villagers citing 102 and the United Nations citing over 200, SEMA’s focus remains on ensuring the safe return of any missing individuals.
“We have been reliably informed that nine out of the ‘missing’ IDPs traced their way back to the camp last Friday, March 8,” Saidu disclosed, emphasizing the need for heightened vigilance to track any further returns. He criticized the inconsistency of the reported numbers, attributing it to a lack of trust between the IDPs, the government, and NGOs.
Saidu further stated, “There is no trust between them and the government and between them and NGOs; there is even no trust among themselves.” He accused the IDPs of manipulating figures to serve their interests, whether to garner sympathy or resist certain initiatives.
Despite ongoing skepticism and political tensions, Borno SEMA remains committed to the welfare and safety of internally displaced persons, vowing to continue monitoring and responding to developments in collaboration with relevant stakeholders.
