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As the 72-hour ultimatum issued by Boko Haram over the fate of 416 abducted residents of Ngoshe community in Gwoza Local Government Area of Borno State expired, uncertainty has continued to grow, with no official response from either the insurgents or government authorities.
DAILY POST gathered that 12 of the abducted victims have escaped captivity, leaving the fate of the remaining 404 victims hanging in the balance.
The insurgents had demanded a ransom of N5 billion from the federal and Borno State governments, warning that failure to comply could endanger the lives of the captives.
They also threatened to relocate the victims and resist any military rescue attempt, heightening concerns about the safety of those still in captivity.
Sources in Pulka said the escape followed a military operation targeting insurgent hideouts in the area.
One of the escapees reportedly revealed that the insurgents fled during the operation, abandoning some captives while escaping with others.
The victims were abducted during a March 4 attack on a military base and Ngoshe community, where several residents were killed and hundreds taken hostage.
A statement by the Borno South Youth Alliance confirmed that the 12 escapees, comprising 10 females and two males, are now safe in a nearby community. However, the group stressed that a larger number of victims remain in captivity.
The abduction drew wider attention after a faction of Boko Haram, Jama’atu Ahlis-Sunna Lidda’awati Wal-Jihad, released a video on April 20 demanding a ransom from the government.
Observers say the silence following the expiration of the ultimatum has heightened anxiety among residents, many of whom fear for the safety of their loved ones still in captivity.
Residents in affected communities are said to be living in fear, uncertain about the next move by the insurgents, especially amid threats to relocate the captives or harm them.
Security analysts warn that the situation highlights the persistent vulnerability of rural communities in Borno, where attacks and mass abductions continue to disrupt lives and livelihoods.
They note that beyond the immediate concern for the abductees, the incident has deepened mistrust and fear among residents, with many calling for more proactive and decisive measures to prevent further attacks and secure the release of those still held.
As uncertainty lingers, attention remains fixed on the response of authorities and the next steps that could determine the fate of hundreds still in captivity.
Borno: Fate of 404 abductees unclear as Boko Haram deadline elapses
