Survivors of Gwoza attack by Boko Haram recall ‘total terror’

Nigerian soldiers in Gwoza escort Hassan Usman, who had been forced into labor by Boko Haram and had his hand amputated after the Islamic militants accused him of stealing fuel. (Lekan Oyekanmi / Associated Press)

April 17, 2015 2:48 AM PT

“The whole town smelled of death,” said Mariam Adam, a midwife. “What really affected me is the way that we women had to bury the men. It’s very difficult and it’s something I’ll never forget in my life.”

A woman cries upon learning that her relatives were killed by Boko Haram in Gwoza, Nigeria in April 2015.

(Lekan Oyekanmi / Associated Press)

Nigerian soldiers stand guard in front of the burned palace of the local emir of Gwoza, Nigeria. Eight months ago, the palace was attacked by Boko Haram militants. (Lekan Oyekanmi / Associated Press)