Just hours after President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Babagana Zulum assured Nigerians of improved security during speeches marking the nation’s 64th Independence Day, suspected Boko Haram militants kidnapped around 15 farmers in Ngoshe, a community in Gwoza Local Government Area of Borno State.
Due to poor communication in the area, the exact timing of the abduction remains unclear, but tensions had reportedly been rising between farmers and terrorists as crops neared harvest in communities bordering Cameroon and Gwoza.
According to reports, five of the kidnapped individuals were killed, along with a Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) member, Jubril Dada Zarana, who was working with security agencies to repel the attackers.
A local source shared: “We regret to inform you that about 15 farmers, including children, women, and the elderly, were taken by Boko Haram in Ngoshe, Gwoza LGA. Unfortunately, the terrorists also killed CJTF member Jubril Dada Zarana and five other civilians.”
The source added that the farmers were ambushed while working on their land. Despite efforts from the army and CJTF to defend the community, they were overwhelmed by the attackers.
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“Jubril Dada Zarana died heroically defending the community, while the other victims were taken captive. After reaching their base, the terrorists killed five of them,” the source continued.
The five victims reportedly included Isa Musa Moh’d Diyara, Doglas, Salawuddin Suleman Dauda Lawan, Maryam Gwambran, and Baba Amos.
The terrorists later released three women who shared that others, including Anna Andrew Gadzawaga and Hauwa Braga, along with two young boys, remain in captivity. More individuals, such as Babawo Kanin Shagari and Ummi Trabos, are still missing.
An emotional appeal was made by local citizens: “As we mark Independence Day, a day meant for freedom and progress, our people are in pain and despair. They suffer greatly without sufficient aid, risking their lives just to farm and survive.”
The First Class Emir of Gwoza, HRH Alhaji Mohammed Shehu Timta, confirmed that efforts were being made to gather more information on the incident. He promised to provide further updates when available.
