Terrorist group Boko Haram has released a video daring the Nigerian government to attempt a forceful rescue of 416 abducted victims in Borno State, warning that failure to meet its demands within 72 hours could lead to the victims being moved to undisclosed locations.
The video, obtained on Monday, shows armed militants dressed in military camouflage declaring their readiness to confront any rescue operation, while insisting they “welcome” any attempt by security forces to recover the captives by force.
Delivering the message in Hausa, with English subtitles, the group identified itself as Jama’atu Ahlis-Sunna Lidda’Awati Wal-Jihad and issued what it described as a “first and final” warning to both the Nigerian government and the Borno South Youths Alliance.
“We are giving you 72 hours. If our demands are not met, we will move these victims, including women and children, to different locations. You have made your decision, and we have made ours,” a spokesperson for the group said in the footage.
The militants did not disclose their demands in the video but warned that the victims could “never be seen again” if their conditions are not fulfilled within the stipulated timeframe.
The group also reiterated its rejection of the Nigerian government, declaring it does not recognise the authority of the state and urging authorities not to exceed the deadline.
The development follows earlier communication between the insurgents and intermediaries, with the Borno South Youths Alliance acting as a channel between the group and the victims’ families.
Reports indicate that the terrorists had previously demanded a ransom of N5 billion for the release of the abducted victims, many of whom are women and children from Ngoshe.
Confirming the demand, the President of the group, Samaila Ibrahim Kaigama, said the ultimatum was communicated through a video described by the insurgents as a final warning.
He called on the Nigerian government, international community, and well-meaning individuals to urgently intervene and secure the release of the victims.
Kaigama specifically appealed to Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima, and Babagana Umara Zulum, as well as prominent Nigerians including Aliko Dangote and Abdul Samad Rabiu, to support efforts aimed at rescuing the victims.
The abduction is linked to an earlier attack in March on a military base in Ngoshe, where insurgents reportedly overran security forces, destroyed operational vehicles, and abducted civilians during the assault.
The latest threat has heightened concerns over the safety of the captives and underscores the ongoing security challenges in Nigeria’s North-East, where insurgent activities continue to endanger civilian lives.
