Boko Haram Agrees To Release 50 Out Of 416 Abducted In Borno

• Says Remaining Captives Scattered

BY BONNY AMADI With Agency Report A faction of Boko Haram terrorist group identified as Jama’atu Ah- lis-Sunna Lidda’Awati Wal-Jihad (JAS), has agreed to release 50 women and children from a group of 416 abducted victims following intense negotiations and mediation efforts by the Borno South Youth Alliance (BOSYA).

However, the insurgents warned that the process may be severely hindered, claiming the captives have already been dispersed across distant locations.

In a voice note as captured by Sahara Reporters, a representative of the terrorist group, speaking in Hausa, disclosed that gathering the women and children for release would be extremely difficult due to their current dispersion.

According to the Boko Haram representative, “All of the women have been scattered, it will be hard to see two women in the same place.”

“Before we can gather them is another work on its own. Since the ultimatum we gave them has elapsed, there is no talk again,” he said.

Before we can gather them in one place is a work. I don’t have time to gather them right now. Some of the women were taken far away, close to 200 kilometres. How can I gather such people?”

Speaking with SaharaReporters on Tuesday evening, BOSYA President, Samaila Ibrahim Kaigam, confirmed that negotiations had yielded a conditional agreement for the release of 50 victims.

“We wish to inform Nigerians and Southern Borno indigenes that, through sustained, careful, and extensive discussions and mediation over the past weeks, JAS (Boko Haram) has agreed to a proposed arrangement for the possible release of 50 women and children,” Kaigam said.

He commended the role of the Nigerian Army, noting that their efforts stood out amid insufficient commitment from political office- holders.

“We sincerely commend the efforts of the Nigerian Army, who, from all indications, have shown persistence and commitment more than many political figures in working toward the freedom of these hostages,” he added.