Ndume Denies Boko Haram Mediation Allegations

Senator Ali Ndume, representing Borno South, has categorically denied allegations that he acted as an intermediary for Boko Haram or received funds from the Federal Government for negotiations. These claims were made by Samaila Kaigama, President of the Borno South Youth Alliance, who alleged Ndume received N5 billion for negotiations regarding the release of abducted residents from Ngoshe in Gwoza Local Government Area, with only N1.9 billion reportedly reaching Boko Haram.

Ndume asserted his long-standing opposition to negotiating with Boko Haram or paying ransoms, stating, “I do not support negotiating with Boko Haram or paying any ransom.” He mentioned that the Federal Government is currently investigating the allegations against him. Ndume also recalled a previous arrest in 2011 over alleged connections with a supposed Boko Haram negotiator, which collapsed due to lack of evidence.