Boko Haram terrorists have released a video warning the Nigerian government not to attempt a forceful rescue of 416 people abducted in Borno State.
In a video, the group said that if their demands are not met within 72 hours, the victims will be moved to unknown locations where they may never be found again.
In a video released yesterday, the terrorists also said they would welcome any attempt by the government to rescue the victims by force, adding that they are ready for confrontation if that option is chosen. The fighters, seen wearing military camouflage, insisted they are prepared for battle if the government does not meet their demands.
In a message delivered in Hausa and shown in English on screen, the group said: “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”.
The group did not clearly state its full demands in the video, but had reportedly asked for ₦5bn ransom for the release of the victims. They also warned: “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”.
A spokesperson for the group added: “Let this message reach the Borno-South Youth Alliance and the Nigerian government. We do not act lightly. This is our message”.
President of the Borno-South Youths Alliance, Sama’ila Kaigama, confirmed that the group had earlier communicated a ₦5billion ransom demand during mediation efforts involving the abducted women and children.
In a statement, he said urgent action was needed and appealed to authorities and wealthy Nigerians to help secure the victims’ release. He called on President Bola Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima, Governor Babagana Zulum, as well as business leaders and philanthropists to intervene quickly.
