Fresh fears over Nigeria’s deepening insecurity have emerged after armed groups demanded a total of N6 billion ransom for hundreds of abducted victims in Borno and Kaduna states.
In Borno State, the extremist group Boko Haram is reportedly demanding N5 billion for the release of 416 women and children abducted from Ngoshe community in Gwoza Local Government Area. The group issued a 72-hour ultimatum through intermediaries, warning that failure to meet its demands could lead to the victims being dispersed.
A video released by the group showed armed members declaring readiness to resist any military rescue attempt, while insisting their demands must be met within the stated deadline.
The development has intensified anxiety among affected families and communities, many of whom are already displaced and struggling with the humanitarian impact of the attack.
In a separate incident in Kaduna State, suspected terrorists who attacked Ariko community in Kachia Local Government Area on Easter Sunday demanded N1 billion for the release of kidnapped residents. The victims reportedly include elderly individuals, women, children, and entire families, further worsening the humanitarian situation in the area.
Community representatives described the ransom demand as unrealistic, noting that affected families, already dealing with loss and trauma, cannot afford such an amount.
Reacting to the situation, Senator Ali Ndume called on the Federal Government to take decisive action to secure the release of the captives but maintained his opposition to negotiating with terrorists.
He stressed that authorities must exhaust all possible means to rescue victims while providing humanitarian support to displaced persons.
Security analysts, however, remain divided on the best approach. Some argue that paying ransom could strengthen terrorist operations, while others suggest that controlled negotiations or tactical tracking methods could help locate and dismantle the criminal networks.
Experts also emphasized the need for stronger intelligence gathering, improved use of technology, and deeper collaboration with international partners to tackle the growing threat.
Human rights group Amnesty International urged authorities to prioritise the safe rescue of victims, warning that abductees often face severe conditions, including hunger and abuse while in captivity.
Meanwhile, civil society leaders raised concerns about accountability in security spending, warning that repeated large-scale abductions signal a worsening national crisis and possible systemic failures.
The incidents highlight the increasing scale of coordinated kidnappings across Nigeria, raising urgent concerns about the country’s capacity to respond effectively and protect vulnerable communities.
