A faction of Boko Haram, known as Jama’atu Ahlis Sunna Lidda’awati wal-Jihad, has issued a 72-hour ultimatum to the Nigerian government, threatening to execute 416 captives—mostly women and children—if its demands are not met.
In a video reportedly obtained from the group, a masked spokesperson said the deadline had already begun, warning that failure to comply would lead to mass killings of those held in captivity in Borno State.
Speaking in Hausa, the spokesperson identified the group and stated that it remains committed to its cause, adding that the message was directed at the Nigerian government and other identified stakeholders.
The group claimed that both sides had already exchanged demands and warned against any attempt to alter or delay compliance, insisting that instructions must be followed exactly as stated.
It further threatened that if the ultimatum expires without action, the captives would be executed, adding that any military rescue attempt would worsen the situation.
The insurgents maintained that they were serious about their threat, insisting it was not a bluff and warning of immediate consequences if their demands are ignored.
As of the time of this report, the Nigerian government has not issued an official response to the ultimatum.
Reacting to the development, the President of the Borno South Youth Alliance (BOSYA), Sama’ila Ibrahim Kaigama, made a public appeal to top government officials, including President Bola Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima, Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum, and the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, urging urgent intervention to secure the release of the captives.
He expressed frustration over what he described as a lack of response from authorities, saying he had reached out through political channels but had not received meaningful feedback.
Kaigama said he had also contacted Senator Ali Ndume, who referred him to the National Security Adviser, but noted that no response had been received.
He described himself as a mediator acting out of concern for the victims and appealed to both government officials and wealthy Nigerians to intervene and help secure the release of the abducted individuals.
The situation has heightened fears over the safety of the captives, as calls for urgent action continue to grow.
