In a puzzling turn of events in Gamboru-Ngala, Borno State, nine out of the 102 internally displaced persons (IDPs) who were reportedly abducted have returned home. The incident allegedly occurred on Sunday, March 4, when the IDPs were fetching firewood in the bush. Conflicting narratives have emerged, with local media reports and UN confirmation supporting the abduction claim, while the Borno State government dismisses it, insisting that the individuals merely lost their way.
The Director-General of Borno State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), Dr. Barkindo Mohammed Saidu, led a fact-finding team to Ngala to investigate the incident. He expressed skepticism about the abduction narrative, stating, “We believe they only lost their way back home, not abducted, because if they were abducted, the abductors would have, by now, called for ransom; but nobody has called anybody for any ransom yet.”
The Borno SEMA helmsman further emphasized the government’s refusal to provide a specific number initially, citing their familiarity with the IDPs and the belief that the situation was not indicative of an abduction.
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“As of Sunday, March 10, no authority gave The PUNCH any hint about the abductors quoting any ransom for the release of the abductees whom the Borno government still firmly believes only lost their way back home,” Dr. Saidu revealed.
Despite the government’s stance, media reports confirmed by locals and UN condemnation point towards a more sinister event. The lack of ransom demands, as of the latest update, raises questions about the nature of the incident.
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“We have been reliably informed that nine out of the ‘missing’ IDPs traced their way back to the camp last Friday, March 8,” Dr. Saidu stated on Sunday, adding, “Officials at Ngala have been instructed to mount an intensive and extensive vigilance to inform us about any trickling number returning.”
The conflicting accounts highlight the challenges in obtaining accurate information in conflict-affected regions. As the Borno State government maintains its position, the whereabouts and conditions of the remaining IDPs remain uncertain. The situation underscores the need for continued vigilance and thorough investigations to determine the true nature of the incident and ensure the safety of those affected.
Source: Punch Newspapers
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