A group under the Aegis of Concerned Citizens of Gwoza Local Government Area in Borno State has called on the Federal Government to urgently intervene in the lingering humanitarian crisis facing thousands of displaced persons from the area since the Boko Haram insurgency began in 2013.
Speaking at a press conference in Abuja, the group’s leader, Dr. John Ayuba, appealed directly to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to release funds already budgeted for the repatriation and resettlement of Gwoza citizens and to ensure transparency in the process.
“Our demand is simple,” Dr. Ayuba said. “Restore our homes, restore our children, restore our dignity. The resources are there; what we need is political will and justice for families who have suffered for over a decade.”
91,000 Still Displaced, 50,000 in Extreme Hardship
According to the group, at least 91,000 people from Gwoza remain displaced across Nigeria and Cameroon, while another 50,000 live with relatives under extreme hardship.
Dr. Ayuba gave a breakdown of the figures:
58,327 refugees in Minawao Camp, Cameroon
5,100 IDPs** in Abuja (Wasa, Waru, and New Kuchigoro)
8,447 IDPs in Adamawa State
Thousands more in Taraba, Nasarawa, Edo, Plateau, and Borno itself
The group also raised concerns that more than 550 refugees in Cameroon have been “abandoned,” with some dying while attempting to trek back to Nigeria.
Calls for Justice and Accountability
The citizens highlighted serious human rights concerns, including the separation of 17 children from their parents since 2013, and the disappearance of Hon. Musa Bukar Barawa, a former Vice Chairman of Gwoza LGA.
“There are credible reports of unlawful detentions and impunity affecting our people,” Dr. Ayuba stressed. “We are calling for an independent panel of inquiry to investigate these abuses and recommend accountability.”
Demands to Government
The group urged the Federal Government to:
1. Release budgeted funds for repatriation and resettlement.
2. Direct the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and relevant agencies to coordinate a transparent recovery program.
3. Ensure full participation of displaced persons in resettlement planning.
4. Group Urges FG to provide housing, healthcare, education for Returnee IDPs
5. Deploy a military battalion and permanent barracks in Gwoza East to secure the area.
The group stressed that political leaders and security agencies have failed to protect Gwoza citizens, insisting that only strong political will can end their suffering.
“If the government is willing, with the cooperation of the concerned citizens, a solution will be provided within the shortest possible time,” Dr. Ayuba concluded.
