A faction of Boko Haram, Jama’atu Ahlis Sunna Lidda’awati wal-Jihad, has issued a chilling 72-hour ultimatum to the Nigerian government, threatening to execute 416 captives, mostly women and children, if its demands are not met.

The threat was contained in a video circulating online, where a masked spokesperson announced that the countdown had begun, warning that any failure to comply would lead to mass executions.

Ultimatum announced in video

In the footage, the spokesperson identified the group and its leader, declaring that the message was directed at the Nigerian government and other stakeholders, including the Borno South Youth Alliance.

He insisted that prior negotiations had already been communicated and warned that no modifications would be tolerated.

“We are giving you seventy-two (72) hours… if you do not fulfil what we have told you, do not add or change anything,” he said.

The group added that the ultimatum took effect from April 19, 2026.

Threat to execute captives

The insurgents warned that failure to comply would result in the killing of the hostages, claiming they would be “shot” if demands are ignored.

They also cautioned against any military rescue attempt, insisting such action would worsen the situation.

“If you attempt to recover them by force… it will only make matters worse,” the spokesperson added.

The group further stated, “This is not a bluff… we act on what we say.”

Government yet to respond

As of the time of filing this report, the Federal Government had not issued any official response to the ultimatum.

The development has heightened concerns over the safety of the captives, though the exact location and condition of the victims remain unclear.

Local mediation efforts

Reacting to the situation, President of the Borno South Youth Alliance, Sama’ila Ibrahim Kaigama, confirmed ongoing efforts to engage authorities for intervention.

He appealed to top government officials, including President Bola Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima, Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum, and National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, to act swiftly.

“I am only a mediator… I went to places a lot of youths like me will never go to because I want to save lives,” he said.

Kaigama also called on influential individuals and stakeholders to support ongoing efforts to secure the release of the captives.