Don’t neglect survivors’ trauma – Bukarti tells government after Oyo rescue

Security and conflict analyst, Dr. Bulama Bukarti had described the rescue of abducted students and teachers from Oyo State, as “fantastic news” while urging authorities to provide long-term psychological support for the victims.

Speaking during an interview with Channels TV on Friday, Bukarti congratulated Nigerians, for what he described as a successful operation.

However, he stressed that the government should clarify that the victims were freed through a genuine military rescue rather than the payment of ransom.

“I hope and pray that this is an actual military operation and not a negotiation where money or anything else was given to the terrorists. Paying ransom only encourages them to abduct more people, giving them the motivation, resources and equipment to carry out further attacks,” Bukarti said.

The analyst also warned against overlooking the physical and emotional suffering endured by the students and teachers during their 56-day captivity.

According to him, the victims were subjected to harsh conditions in the bush, lacking adequate food, shelter and family support, while many were allegedly threatened and abused.

“We should not gloss over the suffering of these students and teachers. They have gone through horrific experiences. If we fail to address their trauma, post-traumatic stress disorder could remain with them for the rest of their lives and even affect future generations through what is known as transgenerational trauma,” he said.

Bukarti called on the Oyo State Government to ensure the victims receive comprehensive mental health and psychosocial care in addition to routine medical treatment.

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