Boko Haram Releases Video of Ex- LG Chairman Pleading For $300,000 Ransom

A video released by Boko Haram insurgents has surfaced showing two abducted men in Borno State appealing for help to secure their release, with the kidnappers demanding a total ransom of $300,000.

One of the captives identified himself as Hassan Biu Miringa, a former Chairman of Biu Local Government Area who served between 2020 and 2022. In the footage, Miringa said he and another individual were kidnapped in December 2025 and have remained in the custody of the insurgents since then.

Speaking in the video, which was shared by security analyst Zagazola Makama, Miringa introduced himself and described their ordeal. He said they were abducted by fighters he referred to as “the soldiers of Khilafa” and confirmed that, although they were still alive, their lives were in danger.

“Alhamdulillah, we are still alive, but we urgently need help to save our lives,” he said.

Miringa disclosed that negotiations had been ongoing with the abductors and that discussions had taken place on four occasions, with some level of understanding reportedly reached. He appealed directly to political leaders and community stakeholders in southern Borno to intervene on their behalf.

He specifically mentioned the Deputy Governor of Borno State, Alhaji Usman Umar Kadafur; the member of the House of Representatives representing Biu, Kwaya Kusar and Shani federal constituency, Hon. Betera Aliyu; and other community leaders, urging them to assist in securing their release.

“We appeal to our leaders to temper justice with mercy and assist us. We are their children and have been working together,” Miringa said.

According to him, the insurgents are demanding $150,000 from each captive, bringing the total ransom to $300,000. He pleaded for urgent intervention to enable them to return to their families.
The release of the video has renewed concerns about persistent insecurity and kidnapping in southern Borno State, where insurgent attacks and abductions continue despite ongoing military operations and government efforts to restore peace in the region.