Ndume Demands Public Probe into N5bn Boko Haram Ransom Allegation

Senator Ali Ndume, representing Borno South Senatorial District, has called for a transparent public investigation by the Department of State Services (DSS) and other security agencies into claims that he received N5 billion intended as ransom for Boko Haram abductees. Ndume firmly denied any involvement in negotiating with terrorists or managing ransom payments, labeling the allegations as false, politically motivated, and defamatory.

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I have never supported negotiating with Boko Haram, and I will never support paying ransom to terrorists.

During a television interview, Ndume stated he had already alerted the National Security Adviser (NSA), the DSS, the police, and military intelligence. The allegations originated from Zamala Ibrahim Kaigama, who identified himself as the president of the Borno South Youth Alliance. According to Ndume, Kaigama initially approached him after hundreds of his constituents were abducted, claiming direct communication with Boko Haram and knowledge of a N5 billion ransom demand. Kaigama repeatedly urged Ndume to contribute to the purported ransom, but the senator refused due to his long-standing opposition to negotiating with terrorists.

"I have never supported negotiating with Boko Haram, and I will never support paying ransom to terrorists," Ndume declared. He added, "The moment I refused to contribute money, he began making all sorts of contradictory and defamatory allegations against me." The senator dismissed claims that he received N5 billion from either the federal or Borno State government for onward payment to the insurgents, deeming the allegation implausible. "I have never seen N1 billion at once in my life, let alone N5 billion. If anybody claims such money was paid, they should tell Nigerians whether it was cash or bank transfer. If it was transferred, into which account was it paid and who authorised the payment? These are questions that require evidence, not mere allegations," he challenged.

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The moment I refused to contribute money, he began making all sorts of contradictory and defamatory allegations against me.

Ndume revealed he has preserved voice notes and messages exchanged with Kaigama, including a warning to cease contact after reporting the matter to security agencies. He has also petitioned the police regarding persistent defamatory statements and intends to pursue legal proceedings against Kaigama. Furthermore, Ndume alleged that Kaigama collected money from some constituents with promises of releasing abducted relatives, who have yet to be freed. The senator indicated that this matter has also been reported to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission.

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I have never seen N1 billion at once in my life, let alone N5 billion. If anybody claims such money was paid, they should tell Nigerians whether it was cash or bank transfer. If it was transferred, into which account was it paid and who authorised the payment? These are questions that require evidence, not mere allegations.