Families of over 100 women and children abducted from Woro community in Kaiama Local Government Area of Kwara State have raised alarm over reports that suspected terrorists from the group Boko Haram are allegedly preparing to organise what they describe as a “Quranic graduation” ceremony for the captives.
The victims were taken during a deadly attack in February, when armed assailants invaded the community, reportedly killing more than 200 residents and abducting about 176 women and children.
The incident left the community in shock and triggered widespread concern across northern Nigeria.
According to family members who spoke on the situation, the abductors recently contacted them and claimed they had been teaching the captives Islamic studies, including Quran memorisation and religious practices.
They allegedly said many of the abducted women and children had now completed their “training” and were ready to “graduate.”
Relatives described the development as distressing, saying they are uncertain how to interpret the claims while their loved ones remain in captivity.
The families also alleged that the group warned that any resources spent on the planned ceremony would later be included in future ransom negotiations with both the government and relatives.
Inside Kwara State:
Kwara Kidnappers Threaten Forced Marriages for Emir’s Wives, Demand ₦150 Million Ransom
Court Jails 18 Boko Haram Members, Four Bag Life Sentences in Abuja
Kwara Road Crash Claims 3 Health Workers
Community leaders involved in efforts to secure the release of the abductees said the situation reflects how long the victims have been held and called for urgent intervention from authorities to secure their safe return.
The prolonged captivity has continued to raise concern in Kaiama and surrounding communities, with residents expressing fear over the safety of the abducted women and children, including pregnant women and minors.
In earlier communications and video recordings reportedly released by the abductors, some of the victims were seen appealing for help and describing their conditions in captivity.
Local youths have also staged protests in recent weeks, demanding stronger action from security agencies and government authorities to rescue the remaining captives and restore peace to the area.
Authorities have yet to issue a detailed public response to the latest claims.
About the Author
