My story begins on September 2, 2014, when Boko Haram attacked my small town in Bama. I was just 13 years old, and I had big dreams for my future. I was about to enrol in secondary school, but the insurgents shut down all the schools and prevented us from attending Quranic schools. I remember the day vividly — it was a Tuesday, and I was at home with my family. The terrorists stormed our town, killing and abducting many people, including my brother. My mother was devastated when she heard the news of my brother’s supposed death, and she eventually passed away due to the trauma and high blood pressure.
I was taken captive along with many other girls, and we were forced to witness horrible scenes, including the flogging of aged people and the slaughtering of those who disobeyed the insurgents. We were held in a big house in Bama, and many of the girls were dragged out and taken away for marriage to some commanders and fighters in various villages. I was forced into marriage with a Boko Haram commander, and I spent three years in captivity. During that time, I was subjected to physical and emotional abuse, and I witnessed many atrocities.
As a captive, I was treated harshly, and my life was filled with fear and uncertainty. I was forced to do chores and obey the insurgents’ instructions, and any disobedience was met with severe punishment. I saw many girls being forced into marriages, and some were even sold as slaves. I felt helpless and trapped, and I didn’t know if I would ever escape.
Despite the trauma and hardships, I refused to give up. I planned my escape carefully, and after managing to flee with some other girls, we walked for hours until we reached a military camp, where we were taken in and interrogated. From there, I was taken to a rehabilitation centre in Maiduguri, where I received medical care and counselling.
However, my journey to recovery was far from over. When I discovered I was pregnant, I felt helpless and ashamed. I had been taught that a woman’s worth is tied to her ability to bear children, and I felt like I had failed. But a kind stranger helped me deliver my baby and showed me love and compassion. Slowly, I began to heal and find my strength again.
Today, I’m a strong advocate for women’s rights and a fierce opponent of Boko Haram’s brutality. I’ve found purpose in fighting against the group that once took my freedom and dignity away from me. I’m determined to make a difference and help other women who have been affected by the conflict. Through my advocacy, I’ve been able to connect with other women who have experienced similar trauma, and together, we’re working towards healing and rebuilding our communities. I’m determined to make a difference, no matter what it takes.
As narrated by: Hauwa Mala (Bama, Nigeria).
This snippet is published as part of a series, The Day Boko Haram Attacked.
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