Boko Haram terrorists have released a video daring the Nigerian government to attempt a forceful rescue of 416 abducted victims in Borno State, while issuing a 72-hour ultimatum and threatening to relocate the captives if their demands are not met.
In the video seen on Monday, the group warned that the victims would be moved to unknown locations where they may never be found again if authorities fail to comply.
The terrorists, dressed in military camouflage, also said they “welcome” any attempt by the government to rescue the victims by force, insisting they are battle-ready for any confrontation.
The message, translated from Hausa into English on screen, contained several direct warnings from the group.
It read, “Today, 19th April 2026, we are issuing a new message to the Borno South Youths Alliance and to the Nigerian government, which we do not recognise as our government. This is our first and final message. We are giving you 72 hours.
“If our demands are not met, we will move these victims, including women and children, to different locations. All of them. You have made your decision, and we have made ours. We instruct you, in the name of Allah, not to exceed the given time.
“And take a look at them before we do so, because you may never see them again. If the government believes it can rescue them by force, you are free to try. We depend on Allah.
“Let this message reach the Borno South Youth Alliance and the Nigerian government. We do not act lightly. This is our message.”
Earlier, the group was said to have demanded ₦5 billion for the release of the victims through ongoing mediation involving the Borno South Youths Alliance (BOSYA).
Confirming the development, BOSYA President, Samaila Kaigama, said the demand was conveyed during mediation efforts described as a “final warning” from the terrorists.
He said, “Borno South Youth Alliance wishes to inform the public and the international community that on 19th April 2026, Boko Haram reportedly issued a 72-hour ultimatum regarding ongoing mediation efforts for the release of the 416 Ngoshe women and children in their custody.
“According to information received during the mediation process led by BOSYA President, Samaila Ibrahim Kaigama, a final warning video was sent after demands were communicated, including a ransom request of ₦5 billion for the release of the abducted women and children.
“In view of the urgency of this humanitarian matter, BOSYA renews its appeal to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima, Governor Babagana Umara Zulum, concerned Nigerians, and philanthropists, including Aliko Dangote, Abdul Samad Rabiu, and other well-meaning Northern billionaires.
“We respectfully call on all capable stakeholders to urgently intervene and use every lawful and available means to secure the freedom of these 416 women and children,”
It would be recalled that on March 4, the group attacked a military base in Ngoshe, burning operational vehicles, dispersing security personnel, killing an unspecified number of people, and abducting several others.
Titilope Adako is a talented and intrepid journalist, dedicated to shedding light on the untold stories of Osun State and Nigeria. Through incisive reporting, she tackles a broad spectrum of topics, from politics and social justice to culture and entertainment, with a commitment to accuracy, empathy, and inspiring positive change.
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