Fresh video surfaces as terrorists warn government against forceful rescue, demand ₦5bn ransom.

Boko Haram terrorists have released a video challenging the Nigerian government to attempt a forceful rescue of 416 abducted victims in Borno State.

In the footage, the group warned that if its demands are not met within 72 hours, the victims would be moved to different locations where they may never be found again.
A correspondent who obtained the video early Monday reported that the insurgents said they “welcome” any attempt by the government to rescue the captives through force.
The fighters, dressed in military camouflage, declared they were fully prepared for confrontation if the government opts for military action instead of meeting their demands.
Earlier reports from April 10 indicated that the Borno South Youths Alliance (BOSYA) has been acting as an intermediary between the terrorists and the victims, following a previous video where the abducted individuals were displayed.
In the latest message, delivered in Hausa and translated into English, the group identified itself as Jama’atu Ahlis-Sunna Lidwatu Wal-Jihad under Imam Abu.
The statement read: “Today, 19th April 2026, we are issuing a message to the Borno South Youths Alliance and 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. You have made your decision, and we have made ours. Do not exceed the given time.”
The group, however, did not disclose its demands in the video.
It added, “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. We depend on Allah.”
The spokesperson emphasized that the message should reach both BOSYA and the Nigerian government, noting that the group does not act lightly.
Reports indicate that the terrorists had earlier demanded a ransom of ₦5 billion on Sunday night for the release of the captives.
Confirming this, BOSYA President, Samaila Kaigama, said the demand was communicated through what the insurgents described as a “final warning” video.
According to a statement, “Borno South Youth Alliance wishes to inform the public and the international community that on 19th April 2026, Boko Haram issued a 72-hour ultimatum regarding ongoing mediation efforts for the release of the 416 Ngoshe women and children in their custody.
“During the mediation led by BOSYA President, Samaila Ibrahim Kaigama, a final warning video was sent, including a ransom demand of ₦5 billion.”
Kaigama called on the government and well-meaning Nigerians to urgently intervene to secure the victims’ freedom.
He appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima, Governor Babagana Umara Zulum, and notable individuals including Aliko Dangote and Abdul Samad Rabiu, urging them to use all lawful means to ensure the safe release of the captives.
It will be recalled that on March 4, the insurgents attacked a military base in Ngoshe, burning operational vehicles, scattering security forces, killing an unspecified number of people, and abducting several others.