By Our Correspondent

National News – Suspected Boko Haram insurgents have issued a 72-hour ultimatum to the Nigerian government, threatening the fate of 416 abducted women and children in Borno State.

The warning was delivered in a newly released video on April 19, 2026, where the group challenged authorities to attempt a military rescue.

The terrorists declared they are fully prepared for combat and warned that failure to meet their demands within the deadline would lead to the victims being relocated to undisclosed locations, making rescue efforts nearly impossible.

The victims were reportedly abducted during a recent attack on Ngoshe, a community in Borno, where insurgents stormed a military base, destroyed operational vehicles, and displaced security personnel.

According to the group’s spokesperson, who spoke in Hausa with English subtitles, the ultimatum is a “final message” directed at both the government and the Borno South Youths Alliance, which has been involved in mediation efforts.

Authorities and mediators revealed that the insurgents are demanding a ransom of ₦5 billion for the release of the captives.

The President of the Borno South Youths Alliance, Samaila Ibrahim Kaigama, confirmed that the demand was communicated through the same video.

He appealed to key stakeholders, including President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima, and Governor Babagana Umara Zulum, to urgently intervene and secure the victims’ release.

Kaigama also called on wealthy individuals and philanthropists to support efforts aimed at resolving the crisis peacefully.

The situation has heightened fears among residents and raised fresh concerns over security challenges in Nigeria’s northeast.

As the countdown continues, the fate of the abducted victims remains uncertain, with pressure mounting on the government to act swiftly and decisively.