Tension has escalated in northeastern Nigeria after the terrorist group Boko Haram released a video warning the Nigerian government against attempting a forceful rescue of 416 abducted persons in Borno State.
In the video released on Monday, the insurgents issued a 72-hour ultimatum, threatening to relocate the victims—including women and children—to undisclosed locations if their demands are not met.
The group declared that any military intervention would be met with resistance, stating that its fighters are fully prepared for confrontation. The militants, dressed in military camouflage, appeared defiant as they delivered their message in Hausa, with English subtitles.
“Today, 19th April 2026, we are issuing a new message… This is our first and final message. We are giving you 72 hours,” a spokesperson said in the footage. “If our demands are not met, we will move these victims to different locations. You have made your decision, and we have made ours.”
Although the group did not explicitly outline all its conditions in the video, sources involved in ongoing mediation revealed that a ransom of N5 billion had been demanded for the victims’ release.
The insurgents further challenged the government, saying it was free to attempt a rescue operation but warned of consequences. “If the government believes it can rescue them by force, you are free to try,” the group added.
Confirming the development, President of the Borno South Youths Alliance, Samaila Kaigama, said the ransom demand had earlier been communicated during mediation efforts. He stressed the urgency of the situation and called for immediate intervention.
Kaigama appealed to key national figures, including Bola Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima, and Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum, to take swift action.
He also urged wealthy Nigerians, business leaders, and philanthropists to contribute toward securing the safe release of the abducted individuals.
The situation adds to ongoing security concerns in Borno State, a region that has long been affected by insurgency and mass abductions. Authorities are yet to issue an official response to the latest threat as efforts to resolve the crisis continuIf you want, I can also generate:
