It started suddenly with gunshots and chaos. Children screamed, teachers scattered, and everyone ran for their lives.
IT WAS LIKE AN UNENDING NIGHTMARE
They wanted us to abandon our way of life and adopt their twisted version of Islam. But we knew that wasn’t the way of our people.
HUNGER IS A CONSTANT COMPANION
I don’t know how I’ll be able to pay my next rent. All my businesses have been stuck due to Boko Haram.
THREE OF OUR PEOPLE DIED FROM TORTURE
When we came back, I couldn’t even stand up on my feet; people had to hold me before I went to the toilet.
THEY CUT OFF OUR EARS WITH KNIVES
Among the 42 of us that were captured, only five of us are remaining; the rest are dead.
I COULD NOT RAISE THE ₦500k RANSOM
After the deadline passed, we lost contact with my husband. Some of his fellow captives returned home a week later, but he didn’t.
WE ARE SURVIVORS AND WE’LL REBUILD OUR LIVES
I’ve had to start over from scratch, and it’s been a struggle. But I’m determined to rebuild my life and make a living.
WE LOST OUR LOVED ONES, HOMES, AND LIVELIHOODS
It was a Tuesday, around 5:00 am. We were fast asleep in our house when we heard the warning cries, “Boko Haram is coming!”
WE LEFT ALL OUR BELONGINGS BEHIND
Kind-hearted individuals gave some of us clothes, but that help is only available to those who were lucky enough to reach town.
WE’VE FORGIVEN THE REPENTANT BOKO HARAM
Initially, we were afraid of the repentant Boko Haram members, but now we’re one community.