Ndume Rejects Ransom for 416 Boko Haram Victims

Ali Ndume, the lawmaker representing Borno South, has publicly declared that no ransom will be paid for the 416 individuals abducted by Boko Haram from the village of Muoshi in Borno State. This statement comes as Boko Haram issued a chilling 72-hour ultimatum, threatening to move the victims to an unknown location if their demands are not met.

Ndume expressed his concern regarding the situation, particularly for the innocent captives, and confirmed that the initial reports of 500 abducted individuals were later clarified to 416. He also pointed out that 350 of the victims are Muslims, countering narratives of a Christian genocide.

Ndume reiterated his strong support for the government's decision not to pay ransom, emphasizing that such actions would only embolden the insurgents. He concluded by stressing that the government is actively working to secure the release of the abducted victims without compromising its stance against terrorism.