‘We mixed raw flour with water to stay alive’- Kaduna Christian rescued from kidnappers den recount ordeal

Survivors of the mass abduction in Kurmin Wali village, Kajuru Local Government Area of Kaduna State, have recounted the hardship they endured while in the kidnapper’s den. 

The victims were abducted while attending church servives on January 26. A total of 183 persons were abducted during the attack. Eleven were released earlier and hospitalised, 83 regained freedom days ago, while the remaining 89 were rescued on Wednesday, February 4.

Speaking to newsmen in Kaduna on Thursday, February 5, the victims recounted how they survived on raw flour mixed with water and slept in the open forest for weeks.

One female survivor, who spoke while holding her baby and requested anonymity, said the abductors fed them only four times during their stay in the forest.

“They fed us with raw corn flour just four times. We mixed it with water to have something in our stomach. We slept in the open and were sometimes relieved when the wind blew because it helped keep mosquitoes away.”she said

  She added that their phones were seized and they were constantly threatened by the abductors.

“My worst moment was when they flogged my husband and other men. We cried and feared for their lives, but I thank God that we were rescued alive,” she said, expressing gratitude for her freedom.

Another survivor, a male who also requested to speak anonymously, thanked the Kaduna State Government, the military and other security agencies for securing their release.

“We really suffered in captivity, but it is comforting that the government has promised improved security presence, better roads and other infrastructure in our community” he said