Senator Ali Ndume, who represents Borno South Senatorial District in the National Assembly, has firmly denied allegations linking him to the payment or handling of ransom funds for kidnapped victims, describing the claims as false and calling for a comprehensive investigation by Nigeria’s security agencies.
The senior lawmaker made the remarks during an appearance on Channels Television’s Politics Today, where he responded to accusations made by Samaila Kaigama, who identified himself as the leader of the Borno South Youth Alliance.
Ndume Rejects Allegations
Reacting to claims that he acted as an intermediary in ransom negotiations involving billions of naira, Ndume dismissed the allegations, insisting he has never handled such sums of money.
”I have said it already. In my life, I have never seen N1 billion cash, not to talk of N5 billion,” the senator said.
He described the allegations as baseless and maintained that he has never participated in ransom negotiations or received ransom payments on behalf of anyone.
Calls for Security Investigation
Ndume disclosed that immediately after the allegations became public, he contacted the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) and the Department of State Services (DSS), urging them to investigate the matter thoroughly.
According to him, he requested that both he and his accuser be invited to present their evidence before security authorities.
The senator stressed that the allegations should not be treated as a political dispute but as a serious national security issue deserving immediate attention.
He argued that false or unverified claims relating to terrorism and kidnapping could undermine public confidence and distract security agencies from their primary responsibility of combating violent criminal groups.
Concerns Over Terrorism
Ndume noted that insurgent groups, including the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), continue to pose significant security threats in parts of northeastern Nigeria.
He warned that issues relating to terrorism financing, kidnapping, and ransom payments require careful investigation because of their implications for national and regional security.
According to the lawmaker, allegations involving terrorist organizations should always be supported with credible evidence before being made public.
Position on Ransom Payments
The senator reiterated his longstanding opposition to negotiating with terrorist groups or paying ransom to secure the release of abducted victims.
He argued that ransom payments could strengthen criminal organizations by providing them with financial resources to continue violent activities.
Ndume revealed that disagreements over his position against ransom payments may have contributed to the allegations made against him.
”I do not support negotiation with Boko Haram, not to talk of paying ransom. I think that’s where the problem started,” he stated.
He further alleged that following his refusal to support ransom negotiations, his accuser began making what he described as inconsistent and contradictory statements about his involvement.
Growing Concern Over Kidnapping
Kidnapping for ransom remains one of Nigeria’s major security challenges, affecting several parts of the country and prompting renewed calls for stronger intelligence gathering, improved law enforcement, and enhanced collaboration among security agencies.
Security experts have consistently warned that ransom payments can encourage further abductions while increasing the operational capacity of criminal and terrorist networks.
The Federal Government has repeatedly emphasized its commitment to combating terrorism, banditry, and kidnapping through military operations, intelligence-led policing, and closer cooperation among security institutions.
Investigation Expected
As public attention remains focused on the allegations, security agencies are expected to examine the claims and determine whether any evidence supports the accusations.
The outcome of any investigation could help clarify the circumstances surrounding the controversy while reinforcing the importance of accountability and due process in matters affecting national security.