Boko Haram Demands ₦5 Billion Ransom for 416 Abductees

Boko Haram has issued a 72-hour ultimatum to the Nigerian government, demanding a ₦5 billion ransom for the release of 416 abducted women and children from Nigeria===Borno State. The militant group, which does not recognize the Nigerian government, threatened to relocate the captives to unknown locations if their demands are not met, making their recovery impossible. They also challenged any attempt by the government to rescue the victims by force, stating they are 'battle-ready'. The Borno South Youth Alliance (BOSYA), involved in mediation efforts, confirmed the ransom demand and has appealed to President Bola Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima, Governor Babagana Zulum, and prominent philanthropists like Aliko Dangote and Abdul Samad Rabiu for urgent intervention. This ultimatum follows a March 4 attack on a military base in Ngoshe, where Boko Haram killed personnel, destroyed vehicles, and abducted civilians. The situation intensifies pressure on Nigerian authorities to address persistent security challenges and mass kidnappings in the northern region.