- Boko Haram terrorists have released a “final warning” video, issuing a 72-hour ultimatum to the Nigerian government regarding 416 abducted victims, including women and children.
- The group is demanding ₦5 billion for the release of the captives, who were taken during a March 4 attack on a military base in Ngoshe, Borno State.
- Terrorists warned that if the deadline, starting from April 19 is not met, the victims will be moved to dispersed locations where they “may never be seen again.”
The Nigerian government is facing a race against time as Boko Haram terrorists issued a chilling 72-hour ultimatum for the lives of 416 abducted persons.
Eko Hot Blog reports that in a video obtained on Monday, April 20, 2026, the group dared the military to attempt a forceful rescue, asserting they are “battle-ready” and depend on divine backing for their insurgency.
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The victims were seized during a violent raid on Ngoshe on March 4, where the group overwhelmed security forces and destroyed operational vehicles.
According to the Borno South Youths Alliance (BOSYA), which has acted as a mediator, the terrorists have officially demanded a ₦5 billion ransom to secure the release of the women and children.
Speaking in Hausa, a spokesperson for the group, identifying as Jama’atu Ahlis-Sunna Lidwatu Wal-Jihad stated that the countdown began on April 19.
“We instruction you, in the name of Allah, not to exceed the given time,” the messenger warned, adding that the government is “free to try” a rescue by force if they believe it will be successful.
Samaila Ibrahim Kaigama, President of BOSYA, confirmed the receipt of the warning video. He issued an urgent plea to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima, and Governor Babagana Zulum to intervene.
Kaigama also appealed to prominent philanthropists, including Aliko Dangote and Abdul Samad Rabiu, to assist in the humanitarian crisis to prevent the permanent loss of the 416 captives.
The abduction of the Ngoshe 416 has become a focal point of the ongoing insecurity in Borno South.
As the deadline looms, there is heightened tension in the region, with families of the victims calling for the government to prioritize negotiation over a potentially bloody military confrontation.
