The extremist group Boko Haram has issued a 72-hour ultimatum to the Federal Government of Nigeria, demanding compliance with its conditions for the release of 416 persons abducted in Borno State.
In a video released on Sunday and seen by journalists on Monday, the group warned the government against attempting a forceful rescue operation. The militants, dressed in military camouflage, threatened to kill the hostages if their demands were not met within the stipulated timeframe.
The group also declared its readiness to engage in full-scale confrontation with security forces should authorities choose military intervention over negotiation.
The abductors had earlier demanded a ransom of ₦5 billion for the release of the victims.
In the footage, a spokesperson for the group delivered a stern message addressed to both the government and the Borno South Youths Alliance, stating that the ultimatum was final.
“Today, 19th April 2026, we are issuing a new message… This is our first and final message. We are giving you 72 hours,” the spokesperson said.
He further warned that failure to meet their demands would result in the relocation of the captives, including women and children, to undisclosed locations, making any future rescue efforts more difficult.
The group also challenged the government to attempt a rescue if it believed it was capable, adding that they were prepared for any outcome.
Security agencies have yet to issue an official response to the latest threat as tensions rise over the fate of the abducted victims.
