N6bn ransom demand for Borno, Kaduna victims sparks security fears

Fresh concerns over Nigeria’s worsening security crisis have emerged following coordinated ransom demands totalling N6bn by terrorists holding hundreds of abducted victims in Borno and Kaduna states.

In Borno State, Boko Haram insurgents are demanding N5bn for the release of 416 women and children abducted from Ngoshe community in Gwoza Local Government Area, issuing a 72-hour ultimatum through mediators.

In a separate incident in Kaduna State, suspected terrorists who attacked Ariko community in Kachia Local Government Area on Easter Sunday demanded N1bn for the release of several kidnapped residents, including vulnerable individuals.

The twin incidents, which have left communities traumatised and families in distress, underscore the growing scale and audacity of mass abductions across the country, raising urgent questions about response strategies and the capacity of security agencies to contain the thre

On Monday, Boko Haram terrorists demanded N5bn to free the 416 victims, including women and children abducted from Ngoshe.

In the video released by the terrorists, they dared the Nigerian government to apply force in the rescue of 416 victims.

The group warned that their demands must be met within 72 hours.

Our correspondent, who obtained the video in the early hours of Monday, reported that the group “welcomes” the Nigerian government to attempt a forceful rescue of the victims.

The terrorist group, dressed in military camouflage uniforms, said they were battle-ready in case the government considered applying force rather than meeting their demands.

The message delivered in Hausa Language and translated in English text on the screen reads “We are Jama’atu Ahlis-Sunna Lidwatu Wal-Jihad under Imam Abu.

“Today, being 19th April 2026. We are giving out a new message to the Borno South Youths Alliance and also to the Nigerian government, who are not our government.