Abducted UNICEF Nurse Escapes ISWAP Captivity After Six Years

Alice Loksha, a nurse abducted by ISWAP terrorists in 2018, has regained her freedom after six harrowing years in captivity.

Loksha, who was working at a United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) facility in Rann, Kala Balge Local Government Area (LGA) of Borno State, was kidnapped on March 1, 2018, alongside two other health workers. Her escape was confirmed by military officials during a press briefing at Maimalari Cantonment, Maiduguri, on Friday.

Harrowing Details of Captivity

Deputy Theatre Commander Kenneth Chigbu of the Joint Task Force (JTF) Operation Hadin Kai revealed that Loksha managed to flee from ISWAP custody on October 24, 2024, in Geidam, Yobe State. During her time in captivity, she endured forced marriages to two ISWAP commanders and dire living conditions.

“She was initially held at Tumbuma for two days before being moved to Kwalleram, where she spent seven months and was forced to marry a terrorist leader named Abu Umar,” Chigbu explained. The union resulted in the birth of a son, Muhammad.

Abu Umar was reportedly killed during a gunfight with troops in 2022, leading to Loksha being forced into another marriage with a second ISWAP commander, Abu Simak. When Abu Simak was banished to the Dogon Chukwu camp, Loksha seized the opportunity to escape. After reaching Geidam on October 24, she reported to JTF troops on October 29.

Since her escape, Loksha has undergone medical evaluations and is receiving humanitarian support.

Another Rescue: Fayina Ali

In a related development, the military also confirmed the escape of Fayina Ali, the younger sister of a late army officer, Samuel Andrew, who served with the 212 Battalion. Fayina was abducted on October 19, 2022, while traveling to Maiduguri to process her brother’s death benefits.

Chigbu recounted her ordeal, stating that Fayina was held at various ISWAP enclaves, including Kangarwa and Tumbuma, before escaping. She endured nearly two years in captivity before finding her way to safety.

Government Assures Support

Zuwaira Gambo, Borno State’s Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, received the two women on behalf of the government. She assured the public that both Loksha and Fayina would receive comprehensive care, including psychosocial support and rehabilitation, before being reintegrated with their families.

“These brave women have endured unimaginable suffering, and our priority is their recovery and reintegration,” Gambo said.