Nigeria: Islamist Militants Warn Christians to Leave North Within Three Days

January 2, 2012

The militant Islamist group Boko Haram has issued an ultimatum for Christians living in northern Nigeria, warning them to leave the area within three days, CNN reports. Boko Haram spokesman Abul Qaqa said Boko Haram fighters were prepared to confront soldiers sent to the area under the state of emergency declared in parts of four states by Nigerian president Goodluck Jonathan on Saturday, and also called on Muslims in southern Nigeria to "come back to the north because we have evidence they will be attacked." Human rights activist Shehu Sani said Boko Haram's threat was credible, but that many Christians living in northern Nigeria had nowhere to escape. "The killings will continue," he said, adding that Boko Haram might also begin attacking new areas. In recent months, Boko Haram has increased its number and intensity of terror attacks, including the Christmas Day church bombing that killed 35.