‘Statues Also Breathe,’ film based on Chibok girls’ abduction, screens in Lagos

‘Statues Also Breathe,’ a film documenting the tale of the abducted students from the Government Girls’ Secondary School in Chibok, Borno state by Boko Haram, has screened in Lagos. 

About 276 girls were abducted by the terrorists from their school dormitory on April 14, 2014.

Last year, the Nigerian troops rescued Rebecca Kabu, one of the kidnapped victims.

The army said 76 Chibok schoolgirls had so far escaped, while 107 were released by Boko Haram in 2018.

About 108 of the girls are still reportedly missing.

To remember and honour the missing girls 10 years after their abduction, ‘Statues Also Breathe’ was screened on Thursday in Lagos.

Hosted by the SAB Art Foundation and the Chibok Parents Association, the film documents the creation of terracotta sculptures representing each of the 108 missing girls.

‘Statues Also Breathe’ also serves as a tribute and a reminder of the girls’ absence and the ongoing struggle of their families and community.

Speaking at the movie screening, Amina Ali Nkeki, one of the abducted girls who escaped in 2016, and Jummai Mutah, whose release was secured by the federal government, recalled their experience in captivity.

Speaking about ‘Statues Also Breathe’, Jummai said: “If some people saw this video or the documentary, it will make them help some people that are having some issues in other states”.

“Even for us the Chibok girls, we are so happy and it helped us because of our education and our family who are still in Chibok, this thing (the film) helped them a lot.”

Jummai also recalled how she remained strong and undeterred despite the punishment meted upon her for not getting married in Boko Haram’s custody.

“I have courage because I have my Bible with me. I am reading it always,” she said.

“After they said we should get married. They will give us some punishment. I was thinking how can I get married to these people who kidnapped me from my parents and keep me in this bush? Who will collect my bride price in this bush? I am so discouraged and worried.

“Even I looked at them. How they were living and killing some people, without fearing God, I am thinking I cannot do this. It is better to be punished. But I kept in mind that one day I will have my way.”

On her part, Amina, 27, said she wandered in the forest for about a month with her child when she escaped from her abductors.

See more photos from the movie screening below: