An Islamist militant group has threatened to sell at least 276 Nigerian schoolgirls into slavery.
Boko Haram leader Abubakar Shekau described the students as "slaves," and said, "I abducted your girls. I will sell them in the market, by Allah" in a video obtained by the AFP news agency.
At least 276 youngsters were seized from their school in the village of Chibok, in Borno state, north Nigeria, by militants on April 14.
Nigerian people march in attempt to raise political awareness
Nigerian police said 53 managed to escape shortly after the attack, but at least 223 are still missing. Relatives suggest that figure could be considerably higher.
Reports had previously circulated that some of the girls missing have already been sold as brides across Nigeria's border with Chad and Cameroon for as little as €8.50.
The girls were rounded up and put on to trucks during a raid on their school.
The girls were abducted from Borno state three weeks ago
The US has condemned his actions and say they will do all they can to help authorities in Nigeria.
White House spokesperson Jay Carney on the issue:Meanwhile, the British Foreign Secretary is insisting that Britain is offering Nigeria help.
William Hague says it's shocking:
