Any Boko Haram involvement in this kidnapping would mark a geographical expansion in its activities from its base in the northeast. "They said I should say they are Boko Haram and gangs of Abu Shekau," he said, referring to a name used by a Boko Haram leader. "Sincerely speaking, they are not Boko Haram ... Another of the boys told Reuters that the kidnappers had initially taken them to a hiding place. It was particularly embarrassing for President Muhammadu Buhari, who comes from Katsina state and has repeatedly said that Boko Haram has been "technically defeated".

Source: Dhaka Tribune December 18, 2020 16:18 UTC