May 5, 2026 | SUNTV Global
A faction of Boko Haram known as Jama’atu Ahlis Sunna Lidda’Awati wal Jihad (JAS) has reportedly agreed to release 50 women and children from a group of 416 abducted victims in , following mediation efforts by a local youth group.
The development comes after weeks of negotiations led by the Borno South Youth Alliance (BOSYA), which confirmed that a conditional agreement had been reached with the insurgents.
According to BOSYA leadership, the arrangement provides for the phased release of 50 captives, while discussions continue regarding the fate of others still in captivity.
However, the group warned that the process remains highly uncertain, as the abductees are reportedly scattered across multiple undisclosed locations, making coordinated release difficult.
A voice message attributed to a Boko Haram representative suggested logistical challenges in assembling the captives, claiming that some victims were moved over long distances across remote areas.
“All the women have been scattered. It will be difficult to gather them in one place,” the insurgent reportedly said in Hausa.
BOSYA President, Samaila Ibrahim Kaigam, confirmed the agreement, noting that families of victims and supporters may be required to contribute funds as part of the negotiation process.
He also commended the efforts of the , stating that military involvement has been more visible than political leadership in supporting the rescue efforts.
Kaigam further revealed that the initial demand from the insurgents had reportedly been reduced from ₦5 billion to a more flexible arrangement tied to contributions from affected families.
The group also raised concern over threats reportedly issued by the insurgents regarding the remaining captives, warning that their fate remains uncertain if negotiations fail to progress.
“They indicated that those they cannot keep may face execution,” Kaigam stated, urging urgent intervention from authorities and the international community.
This latest development follows earlier reports that the insurgents had issued an ultimatum to the Nigerian government over the abductees, further heightening fears for their safety.
As negotiations continue, pressure is mounting on authorities to intensify rescue efforts and prevent further loss of life among the remaining captives.
