The stakeholders and representative of Ngoshe people in Gwoza local government area of Borno State have categorically dissociated themselves from a self-acclaimed group operating under the name “Borno South Youth Alliance,” allegedly managed by one Samaila Kaigama, who has publicly claimed involvement in the facilitation of the release of thier people earlier held captives by Boko Haram.
Speaking to journalists at a briefing on Wednesday in Maiduguri, Prof. Suleiman Bello, the chairman, Ngoshe Stakeholders Forum, said for the avoidance of doubt, the group was unknown to them, did not represent their people in any capacity, and was never mandated to speak or act on their behalf.
He said their claims were entirely false, misleading, and should be disregarded by the general public.
LEADERSHIP recalls that prior to the Ngoshe captives’ freedom, Kaigama had been issuing statements claiming that his group had been working for the release of the abducted 416 kidnap victims through negotiation with the Boko Haram terrorists.
Both the Kaigama-led group, in a press statement, and the Nigerian military, through a statement issued by the media information officer of Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK), Lt. Col. Sani Uba, on the day the victims were released, laid claims to the freedom of the Ngoshe abductees.
Further speaking, the Ngoshe stakeholders said, “We are deeply concerned by the activities and utterances of such individuals and groups whose actions appear designed to exploit sensitive humanitarian and security situations for personal gain, publicity, or fraudulent purposes.
“Available indications strongly suggest a pattern of deceptive conduct capable of undermining genuine efforts towards peace, security, and community stability.
“We therefore advise members of the public, media organisations, humanitarian actors, and relevant stakeholders to exercise caution and avoid engaging with or recognising any unauthorised group or individual falsely claiming to represent our people.”
The stakeholders said as law-abiding citizens, they remained sincerely grateful to the Federal Government, the Borno State Government, security agencies, humanitarian institutions, and all relevant stakeholders for their sacrifices, commitment, and support toward the safety, peace, and wellbeing of their people.
“We remain committed to lawful engagement, responsible communication, and continued support for all legitimate efforts aimed at restoring lasting peace and stability in our communities,” the stakeholders added.
The stakeholders said the freed captives have since been reunited with their families and loved ones amid emotional scenes of relief, gratitude and renewed hope for peace and stability in Ngoshe and the entire Gwoza axis.
They commended Governor Babagana Umara Zulum for his relentless leadership, compassion, and commitment towards the rehabilitation, reconstruction and resettlement of displaced communities across Borno State, particularly Ngoshe and surrounding communities.
They extended their deepest appreciation to the Nigerian Army, especially troops stationed in Ngoshe, Pulka and Gwoza, whose sacrifices, resilience and patriotism continued to guarantee security and hope for the people despite enormous danger.
Continuing, the stakeholders said, “While celebrating this milestone, the Ngoshe Stakeholders Forum wishes to renew its passionate appeal to the Borno State Government to accelerate ongoing rebuilding and reconstruction efforts in Ngoshe and neighboring communities to facilitate the safe return of displaced persons to their ancestral homes.
“As the rainy season begins, our people are eager to return to farming activities and rebuild their livelihoods. We therefore call for increased agricultural support, including the provision of seeds, fertilizers, farming implements and other critical inputs, considering that virtually all economic and social infrastructure in Ngoshe was destroyed by insurgency.
“Most importantly, we strongly appeal to government at all levels to prioritize the construction of the Pulka–Ngoshe road. The completion of this strategic road network will significantly enhance security operations, reduce the threat of improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and attacks, improve humanitarian access, strengthen community engagement and restore confidence among returning residents.
“The resilience of the Ngoshe people remains unshaken. We believe that with sustained government support, improved security and collective commitment from all stakeholders, Ngoshe will once again rise stronger, safer and more prosperous.”
