By Joy Yesufu
Boko Haram insurgents have released a video threatening to relocate 416 abducted persons in Borno State if their demands are not met within 72 hours, while daring the Federal Government to attempt a military rescue.
The video, obtained in the early hours of Monday, shows armed fighters in military-style camouflage declaring readiness to confront any forceful intervention.
Although no specific demands were outlined in the latest video, sources involved in mediation efforts disclosed that the group had earlier demanded a ransom of ₦5 billion for the release of the captives.
In the footage, the group—speaking in Hausa with English subtitles—claimed responsibility for holding the victims, including women and children, and issued what it described as a “final message.”
“We are giving you 72 hours. If our demands are not met, we will move these victims to different locations, and you may never see them again,” a masked spokesperson said.
The insurgents also challenged authorities to pursue a military option, insisting they were prepared for confrontation.
“If the government believes it can rescue them by force, it is free to try,” the spokesperson added.
Confirming the development, President of the Borno South Youths Alliance, Samaila Kaigama, said the ultimatum was conveyed as part of ongoing negotiations between intermediaries and the insurgents.
In a statement, Kaigama described the video as a “final warning” and appealed for urgent intervention to secure the release of the victims.
“We wish to inform the public and the international community that a 72-hour ultimatum has been issued regarding the 416 women and children abducted in Ngoshe,” he said.
He urged the Federal Government and other stakeholders to intensify efforts to resolve the crisis.
“We call on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima, Governor Babagana Umara Zulum, and well-meaning Nigerians to urgently intervene using all lawful and available means to secure their freedom,” he added.
The abduction is linked to an earlier attack on March 4, when insurgents reportedly overran a military base in Ngoshe, destroying operational vehicles, dispersing troops, and abducting civilians.
The latest development has heightened fears over the safety of the victims and underscores the persistent security challenges in Nigeria’s North-East.
As of press time, there was no official response from military authorities regarding the threat.
