Ndume Denies Allegations of Ransom Negotiation Links

Senator Ali Ndume, representing Borno South, has denied allegations of involvement in ransom negotiations related to the abduction of residents in Ngoshe, Gwoza Local Government Area, Borno State. During an interview on ARISE NEWS, Ndume responded to claims made by Samaila Kaigama, President of the Borno South Youth Alliance, who accused him of facilitating ransom payments.

Ndume clarified that his only action was to alert security agencies after being informed about the mass abduction of about 416 residents during the Eid-el-Kabir celebration, where insurgents demanded a ₦5 billion ransom. He contacted the Office of the National Security Adviser, the Department of State Services, and other military authorities, providing them with Kaigama’s contact details.

Ndume reiterated his stance against negotiating with terrorists and emphasized that he would not engage in any discussions regarding ransom payments. He called for a thorough investigation into the allegations, asserting that the matter affects national security and should not be treated lightly.