Nigerian forces have executed what is described as the largest rescue operation in the country’s history, liberating at least 308 hostages from jihadi kidnappers. The rescue unfolded over the past week, predominantly from two separate groups of captives. Of these, 163 individuals were abducted from the Woro community in Kwara State on February 3. During this raid, the militants killed 160 people from the village.
The freed hostages shared their experiences under captivity with the Associated Press. One of the survivors, Hauwa Saliu, mentioned that the kidnappers frequently pressured the victims to embrace jihad. Despite praying to return home, many captives doubted they would ever be freed.
Amira Saliu, another victim, recounted the harsh conditions in the forest hideout. The women and children were forced to hide from helicopters and endure makeshift living situations. As a nurse, Amira used her bare hands to assist ten women in childbirth due to a lack of medical supplies.
Mary Ishaya, aged 44, described prolonged periods without food and the grim task of burying deceased captives. “We saw death and suffering,” she expressed.
The governor of Kwara State, AbdulRahman AbdulRasaq, reported that 46 individuals are receiving treatment at a hospital. During a press conference, he expressed the tragic nature of the ordeal, emphasizing the presence of children and women among the victims.
This incident illustrates ongoing conflicts between Islamic insurgents in the northern regions of Nigeria and the substantial Christian minority. The situation has attracted international attention, with past military interventions authorized by the United States. On Christmas Day, a coordinated missile strike targeted Islamic State-affiliated groups to protect Nigerian Christians. This was followed by a joint military action in May, which led to the reported death of a senior Islamic State leader.