Fighters from a Boko Haram faction loyal to Ali Ngulde reportedly executed two women in the Mandara Mountains, located in Gwoza Local Government Area of Borno State. The insurgents accused the women of practicing shirk — an Islamic term for idolatry — after allegedly finding charms (referred to locally as “layu”) in their possession.
According to security and counter-insurgency expert Zagazola Makama, the women were apprehended during a routine insurgent search of their mountain settlement.
They were brought before a makeshift trial system established by the militants, where they were declared guilty of forbidden practices.
In a disturbing act of brutality, the execution was carried out in a secluded part of the mountains, but it was witnessed by both fighters and civilians under the insurgents’ control — apparently intended as a warning to others.
Makama added that the Ali Ngulde faction has been ramping up harsh punishments in recent months, targeting individuals suspected of sorcery, spying, or even attempted defection.
