Some Nigerians who were repatriated from Chad Republic last year after years of displacement by Boko Haram are once again fleeing back across the border.
Many of them had settled in Doron Baga, Kukawa Local Government Area of Borno State, but are now leaving due to growing insecurity and hardship in the area.
A community elder in Doron Baga told Premium Times that the returnees are no longer safe and cannot live normal lives, as Boko Haram insurgents continue to terrorise the area.
“Our people are returning to Chad because Boko Haram insurgents are disturbing us. They will not allow you to farm or fish in our rivers,” he said, asking not to be named for fear of punishment from authorities.
This comes months after eight of the returnees were abducted while fishing outside their resettled community. They were released six days later, but only after paying ransom.
The Borno State Government had earlier relocated over 7,000 Nigerians from Chad, promising them safety and a fresh start. But the reality on the ground has been grim.
Apart from the security threats, the returnees say they are also battling neglect. There are no schools for their children and healthcare facilities are barely functioning.
“While in Chad, our children went to school and progressed significantly. If one was sick, they would get treatment free of charge. We were also getting free food, but here in Doron Baga, our children have no school. The children are only roaming the streets. Our hospital also does not have drugs,” the community elder lamented.
He revealed that more than 50 people have already left for Chad, with many others preparing to follow.
“Governor Zulum assured us he would take care of us for at least six months after our return. However, apart from the ₦200,000 given to us in Maiduguri, since our return to Doron Baga, no official has come to check on us,” he added.
State authorities have yet to comment on the matter.
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