After more than two years in captivity, on Wednesday, the 18th of April 2016, Amina Ali Nkeki, one of the girls kidnapped from Chibok in April, 2014 by members of the Boko Haram sect, was rescued by Nigerian security forces at the edge of the Sambisa forest, Nigeria.

The outpour of joy and happiness at her return was immeasurable as the concerned facets of the government and media announced and celebrated her return to civil society.

Now, it is understandable that the Nigerian government is keen on letting everyone know that they are succeeding in their battle against Boko Haram, however, could they be going about this the wrong way?

After reports of her rescue surfaced, Amina was taken to see the governor of Borno state. Less than a day later, she and her baby were flown to Abuja to meet with the president of Nigeria. During this period several photos of her were taken and circulated online, with bits of news concerning what she was doing and where she was doing it. None of these people thought it would have been better to go and visit her instead? The act of publishing several photos and location of this girl who has managed to escape the clutches of Boko Haram might be doing her more harm than good. Have we stopped to consider the fact that this may aid the insurgency in recapturing her or worse?

Amina has gone through a traumatic ordeal and the last thing she should have to worry about right now is public exposure or the media frenzy trailing her. Why was it so important that Amina had to be flown to see the president almost immediately? Or could it be that her rescue and possible questioning aided in the discovery of the second Chibok girl? She, her mother and her baby need to be protected now, more than ever as they readjust. The only way to ensure that Amina heals properly and goes on to live a normal, healthy life is if she gets the treatment and support that she needs at this time.

According to an American psychiatrist, Dr. David Sack, “in situations like this, where there are multiple hostages or prisoners, it is not unusual for one captive to be treated far worse or to have a psychological response that is more severe than the other prisoners.” He also adds that “in the weeks and months following a traumatic event, some people develop post-traumatic stress disorder. They may have difficulty sleeping because of nightmares, anxiety and frightening thoughts…Recovery [from this type of situation] is a process that takes time, patience and often long-term therapy.”

Since her release she has been in the harsh spotlight of the news. Almost every Nigerian on traditional and social media platforms have seen her face and have a general idea of where she is. As a result of the dangers involved in displaying her like this, leaders of the Chibok community have asked the government to stop exposing Amina Ali

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