Boko Haram/ISWAP releases abducted UN worker, nine others

A Senior Protection Assistant with the United Nation High Commission for Refugees, Abubakar Idris abducted over five months ago by the Islamic State of West African Province (ISWAP) has been released.
Idris popularly known as Alooma was abducted on Maiduguri/Damaturu highway.
The insurgents reportedly attacked a convoy of travellers close to Matari village between Mainok and Jakana along Maiduguri/Damaturu highway where Alooma was abducted at about 8.30am Saturday, January 2, 2021.
The insurgents alleged to have dressed in military uniforms mounted a roadblock on the highway with three Hilux vans and motorcycles.
It was revealed that Alooma got into trouble when he tried to throw away his identification card and was sighted by one of the insurgents.
He is said to be undergoing medical and military check with troops of Operation Hadin Kai in Maiduguri before he will be allowed to reunite with his family.
A businessman, Muazu Bawa, abducted on the same day with Alooma, was also released along with eight other captives.
Bawa was in his private vehicle and ran into the Boko Haram checkpoint but his car was shot from behind before the insurgents whisked him away.
Executive Director of Yobe State Network of Civil Society, Abubakar Baba Shehu, confirmed the release.
“I was together with someone who called a family member of Alooma and he confirmed the release of his brother. This is encouraging news and we pray that more captives should be released soon,” Shehu said.
Friends of the freed captives have taken to Facebook and other social media platforms to celebrate the release of their friends from Boko Haram captivity.