In the quiet town of Chibok, a decade ago, an event occurred that would send shockwaves around the globe. A group of 276 innocent schoolgirls were abruptly taken from their school, marking a dark chapter in Nigeria’s history.
The girls, who were preparing for their final year exams, were abducted by the militant Islamist group Boko Haram. The audacious act sparked a global outcry, leading to the #BringBackOurGirls campaign, which drew support from figures such as former US First Lady Michelle Obama.
Fast forward ten years, and the majority of these girls, now women, have regained their freedom. Over 180 of them have either escaped or been released, including a girl we’ll call Lisu (not her real name) for her safety. Lisu, who gave birth to two children while in captivity, was one of the fortunate ones.
However, the journey back to normalcy has been far from smooth. Many of these women, some of whom became mothers in captivity, have faced stigmatization and rejection from their communities. They’ve been viewed with suspicion, seen as collaborators rather than victims.
Lisu’s story is particularly poignant. After escaping, she went through a government rehabilitation program and was placed in group accommodation with other escapees. But her experience since returning has been far from ideal. She feels her treatment now is worse than what she endured in the Sambisa forest.
“I do regret coming back,” she confessed, expressing her dissatisfaction with the state care. She revealed that basic provisions like food and soap are insufficient, and she’s been subjected to verbal abuse from staff at the group home.
The Borno state government, however, refutes these claims, stating that there are no restrictions on the women’s movements except when their personal safety is at stake.
As we reflect on this decade-long saga, it’s clear that while many of the Chibok girls are physically free, the psychological chains of their past still hold them captive. Their story serves as a stark reminder of the long-lasting effects of such traumatic experiences and the importance of adequate support systems for survivors.
Despite the challenges, the spirit of these women remains unbroken. Their resilience is a testament to the human spirit’s ability to endure and overcome. As the world remembers the Chibok girls, let’s not forget the ongoing struggle of these brave women as they strive to reclaim their lives.
Note: This article is based on information available as of April 2024.