Loksha, 42, was taken while working at a UNICEF office in Kala Balge, Borno State. Alongside her, Fayina Ali, who was kidnapped in 2020, also escaped from the insurgents’ captivity.
Both women endured forced marriages while in captivity. Ali was forced to marry Abu Umar and later, ISWAP Commander Abu Simak. She escaped from a camp in October 2024. Both women are receiving medical care and will undergo psychosocial support before being reunited with their families.
“She was forced to marry Abu Umar, with whom she had a son, Mohammed. After Abu Umar’s death, she was forced into another marriage to ISWAP Commander Abu Simak.
“She later escaped from Dogon Chuku camp on October 24, 2024, and arrived at HQ TC on October 29, 2024, where she received medical attention. Fayina was initially held at Kangaruwa enclave for nine months, then transferred to Tumbunma for three years, and returned to Kangaruwa for another year before escaping,” he said.
He added, “Both women have undergone traumatic experiences and have shown remarkable resilience in the face of adversity.”
Receiving the abductees on behalf of the Borno State Government, the state Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Zuwaira Gambo, assured the military that the two women would receive extensive care.
“The woman will undergo psychosocial support and rehabilitation before being handed over to their families for integration,” Gambo said.
