Boko Haram Gives FG 72-hour Ultimatum Over 416 Captives

BOKO Haram terrorists have released a viral video giving the Federal Government 72-hour ultimatum to meet its demand for ransom, warning it against contemplating a forceful rescue of 416 captives in its custody in Borno State.
The insurgents also warned that if their demands were not met within the period, the victims will be taken to different locations where they may never be seen again.
In the video, which started making the rounds early on Monday, April 20, the terrorists, dressed in military camouflage, said they welcomed any attempt by the government to rescue the victims by force, adding that they are battle-ready if the government chooses force instead of meeting their demands.
The message, delivered in Hausa and translated into English on screen, read: “We are Jama’atu Ahlis-Sunna Lidwatu Wal-Jihad under Imam Abu.
“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.”
However, the group did not state its demands in the video.
“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.”
The terrorists had earlier demanded N5billion on Sunday night, April 19, for the release of the victims, through a video described by the terrorists as a “final warning.”
The statement read: “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 the President of the Borno South Youths Alliance, Samaila Kaigama, final warning video was sent after demands were communicated, including a ransom request of N5billion for the release of the abducted women and children.”
Samaila called on the government and Nigerians to prioritise efforts to secure the victims’ release, adding: “In view of the urgency of this humanitarian matter, BOSYA renews its appeal to President Bola 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.”