Fear and urgency are growing after a faction of Boko Haram issued a chilling ultimatum, threatening to execute 416 captives — most of them women and children — if their demands are not met within three days.
In a disturbing video message, a masked spokesperson for the group declared that the countdown had already begun, warning that the victims would be killed if authorities fail to respond.
“We are giving you seventy-two (72) hours… If these demands are not met… we will begin to execute the women and small children… you will not see them alive again.”
The threat has sent shockwaves across communities in Borno, where families now wait in fear, unsure of what the next hours may bring.
For many, this is not just another security report — it is about real people, innocent lives hanging in the balance.
The group also warned against any rescue attempt, saying military intervention could make the situation worse, raising the stakes for already stretched security agencies.
As the clock ticks, frustration is growing over what many see as silence from authorities.
Sama’ila Ibrahim Kaigama, who has been trying to mediate, made an emotional appeal after revealing he had reached out to top officials without response.
“The government has not contacted us yet… I went to places a lot of youths will never go to because I want to save the lives of these individuals.”
He called directly on key leaders, including Bola Tinubu, Kashim Shettima, and Babagana Zulum, urging immediate action.
“What will you use your wealth if you cannot help… four hundred and sixteen innocent people?”
Behind the numbers are families, mothers, and children — people whose lives now depend on decisions that must be made quickly.
As the deadline draws closer, the fear is no longer distant.
It is counting down — hour by hour.