Dozens of Nigerians freed after six months in jihadi captivity

Nigerian forces have successfully rescued 163 hostages, mostly women and children, who had been held captive by jihadi militants for six months. The group was abducted on February 3 when militants attacked the village of Woro, an incident that resulted in the deaths of over 160 other villagers.

The freed captives, handed over to authorities in Ilorin, Kwara state, are undergoing medical examinations and receiving care for injuries and emotional trauma sustained during their ordeal. Many appeared emaciated and struggled to stand, while others bore visible injuries. Some women learned that their husbands were among those killed in the initial attack.

Survivors recounted harrowing experiences, including days without food and being forced to bury fellow hostages who died in captivity. One woman described the profound fear and suffering, stating, "I still cannot find the right words to describe what has happened to us. We saw death and suffering." Others spoke of falling ill, enduring harsh weather, and hiding from military helicopters.

Some captives had lost hope of ever returning home. The rescue operation is part of a broader effort by Nigerian forces to combat insurgency. The United States is providing military support to Nigeria under an agreement aimed at protecting Nigerian Christians, though this support is largely focused on logistics and intelligence.

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I still cannot find the right words to describe what has happened to us. We saw death and suffering.