A faction of Boko Haram calling itself Jama’atu Ahlis Sunna Lidda’awati wal-Jihad has announced that its 72-hour ultimatum to the Nigerian government has expired, raising fresh concerns for the safety of civilians abducted in Borno State.
The group said it was ready to begin executing captives after talks broke down.
A group spokesperson said in a video message that all talks with authorities were over.
“The 72-hour deadline we gave you has already expired… now there is no discussion,” the spokesperson said, insisting that the group would act on its threats.
The rebel group also rejected ransom talks, saying previous figures were unofficial and insisting that money offers would not change its stance.
The group warned any attempt to carry out military rescue operations would lead to more civilian deaths.
It also mocked government efforts to deal with the situation, while making threats targeting public figures.
The Borno South Youth Alliance, however, has warned that the development might trigger violence against the captives, as the deadline for the ultimatum draws closer.
The group said in a statement it had used up all efforts to buy more time.
The group said fear is growing that we could start to see executions.
In previous engagements the group said it had acted as a humanitarian mediator, helping to delay harm to victims.
“Our pleas and interventions have frequently been the only line between the execution of innocent women and children and their survival,” it said.
The group accused authorities of failing to respond adequately despite repeated appeals to top government officials including President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Borno State Governor Babagana Umara Zulum.
It urged the international community and humanitarian organisations to intervene immediately to avert loss of lives.
The situation has heightened fears in affected communities as security agencies have yet to release an official response at the time of filing this report.
