Some survivors of the February 3 terrorist attack on Woro and Nuku communities in Kaiama Local Government Area of Kwara State have disclosed that at least 13 captives died during nearly six months in captivity, while 12 children remained in the terrorists’ custody.
The survivors spoke in Ilorin on Friday after they were formally received by the Kwara State Government. They said the captives endured severe hunger and spent much of their time sleeping in the open forest.
The victims were among 176 women and children abducted during coordinated attacks on Woro and neighbouring Nuku communities. The attackers, suspected to be Boko Haram terrorists, reportedly invaded the communities on motorcycles, killing residents and destroying homes, shops and the traditional ruler’s palace.
The captives were released on Wednesday after nearly six months in captivity. However, survivor Nafisat Abdulfatai said 12 children were left behind after the terrorists threatened that anyone who attempted to escape would be enslaved.
“Thirteen people died among us during our time in captivity. Twelve children are still with the terrorists,” Abdulfatai said. She appealed for the safe return of the children, saying some were forced to remain behind.
She said the captives were usually fed only once a day, with meals consisting mainly of salt and a local soup known as “luru”. She added that there were days when they had nothing to eat until late in the evening.
Abdulfatai also described the harsh living conditions, saying the captives initially slept in the open forest before a makeshift shelter was constructed after several children died. She said the group later became even larger after about 76 captives from another settlement were brought into the camp.
According to her, several pregnant women gave birth while in captivity, but some babies died. She said between six and seven women lost their babies, while others returned with their children. Some of the rescued victims are currently receiving medical treatment.
Another survivor, Nafisat Yusuf, described the period in captivity as unbearable, saying many children died and several captives remained sick throughout their ordeal. She said security personnel, whom the victims identified as soldiers, eventually evacuated them from the forest.
The survivors expressed gratitude for their release and thanked the Kwara State Government and security personnel involved in the rescue. They also appealed for efforts to secure the release of the 12 children and others who may still be in captivity.
