Tension has escalated in Nigeria’s North-East as Boko Haram issued a 72-hour ultimatum to the Federal Government, demanding ₦5 billion ransom for the release of 416 abducted victims in Borno State, Peak Newspaper reports.
The terrorists made the demand in a video released on April 19, 2026, where they warned that failure to meet their conditions within the stipulated time could result in dire consequences for the captives.
According to reports, the victims mostly women and children were abducted from Ngoshe community in Gwoza Local Government Area during an earlier attack by the insurgents.
In the video, the group declared the ultimatum as a “first and final message,” threatening to relocate the victims to undisclosed locations if their demands are not met, raising fears that they may never be seen again.
The insurgents also warned against any military rescue attempt, stating that they are prepared for confrontation and would resist any forceful intervention by security agencies.
The ransom demand was confirmed by the Borno South Youth Alliance, which has been involved in mediation efforts between the insurgents and families of the victims.
The group appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum, and prominent Nigerians to urgently intervene to secure the safe release of the abducted persons.
The development has heightened anxiety among affected communities, as families of the victims continue to await government action amid fears of possible escalation if the ultimatum expires without resolution.
