A retired Nigerian Army officer, Master Warrant Officer Michael Eneware, has recounted how he survived a terrorist attack after being shot in the chest and left for dead by suspected kidnappers in Karshi, a community on the outskirts of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
The attack, which occurred in the early hours of July 29, has renewed concerns over the growing activities of terrorist and kidnapping gangs operating around Abuja and neighbouring communities.
Speaking on his ordeal, Eneware said heavily armed attackers invaded his neighbourhood shortly after 1 a.m., moving from house to house in search of victims for abduction.
According to him, the gunmen forced their way into his compound through an unfinished perimeter fence before dragging him into the bush alongside a neighbour.
He explained that the attackers were armed with guns, machetes and other dangerous weapons and appeared determined to kidnap residents for ransom.
Eneware said his wife and children escaped unharmed after successfully hiding during the invasion.
The retired soldier disclosed that while being marched through the bush, exhaustion prevented him from continuing. His inability to keep pace reportedly angered the kidnappers, who shot him in the chest and abandoned him after assuming he had died.
Against all odds, he regained consciousness and managed to crawl and walk towards nearby houses despite severe injuries and significant blood loss.
Residents, initially frightened by continuous gunfire, were reluctant to come out until security personnel and some youths arrived to assist him.
He was subsequently rushed to the Nigerian Army Hospital and later transferred to the National Hospital, Abuja, for further treatment.
His neighbour, who was abducted during the attack, was eventually released after a ransom was reportedly paid.
Reflecting on the incident, Eneware said he was shocked that terrorists could operate so freely within a community many residents considered relatively secure. He warned that the attackers appeared familiar with the terrain and deliberately targeted vulnerable homes.
The incident has prompted residents to strengthen security measures around their homes, including improved fencing, surveillance systems and better lighting.
Although he has since been discharged from hospital, Eneware said he is still recovering from the physical and emotional trauma of the attack.
The attack is the latest in a series of security breaches around communities bordering the Federal Capital Territory, raising fresh concerns about the spread of terrorism and kidnapping activities despite ongoing security operations.
