Victims recently freed from Boko Haram captivity in Borno State have recounted harrowing experiences of life inside the terrorists’ enclave, revealing that six newborn babies died shortly after birth due to the absence of medical care and essential supplies.
The survivors were among more than 416 people, mostly women and children, who regained their freedom after spending about three months in captivity following an attack on Ngoshe community in Gwoza Local Government Area on March 3.
According to eyewitness accounts, pregnant women and nursing mothers endured extremely difficult conditions while being held by the insurgents in remote camps with little access to food, healthcare, or sanitation.
Several of the freed victims said women who gave birth during captivity received no professional medical attention, forcing them to rely on improvised methods and support from fellow captives.
The survivors explained that the six babies who died shortly after delivery were unable to receive proper treatment or medication due to the complete absence of healthcare facilities within the terrorists’ enclave.
Some of the women described the deaths as among the most painful experiences they witnessed during their captivity, noting that many mothers were left traumatised after losing their newborn children under such circumstances.
Beyond the deaths of the infants, victims said they endured severe hunger, fear, and uncertainty throughout their time in captivity, with many unsure whether they would ever return home.
Several of the rescued individuals also spoke of the psychological impact of witnessing violence and living under constant threats from their captors.
Humanitarian workers assisting the victims after their release say many survivors require urgent medical care, counselling, and rehabilitation to recover from the physical and emotional effects of their ordeal.
The release of the victims has once again drawn attention to the continuing humanitarian crisis in parts of northeastern Nigeria, where insurgency has displaced millions and disrupted access to healthcare, education, and livelihoods.
Security experts say the testimonies provide further insight into the conditions faced by civilians held by terrorist groups operating in the region.
Meanwhile, authorities and humanitarian agencies have intensified efforts to provide medical support, trauma care, and reintegration services to the freed victims as they begin rebuilding their lives.
The latest accounts from the survivors highlight the devastating human cost of insurgency and the urgent need for sustained security and humanitarian interventions across affected communities in Borno State.