Senator Ali Ndume has firmly denied allegations linking him to ransom payments and negotiations with kidnappers, describing the claims as false and misleading.
The senator, who represents Borno South Senatorial District, said he has never received ransom money, facilitated ransom payments, or acted as an intermediary between kidnappers and the Nigerian government.
Ndume’s response follows allegations suggesting he was involved in negotiations with criminal groups responsible for abductions in parts of the country.
Rejecting the claims in their entirety, the lawmaker maintained that he has never participated in any discussions aimed at securing the release of kidnap victims on behalf of the government, nor has he handled funds intended as ransom.
He urged members of the public to disregard the allegations, insisting that they are baseless and do not reflect his role as a public official.
Nigeria has witnessed a surge in kidnapping-for-ransom cases in recent years, with armed groups targeting commuters, schoolchildren and residents across several states. The growing insecurity has continued to fuel debate over the government’s response, including its policy of rejecting ransom payments to criminal groups.
Ndume has repeatedly called for stronger security measures to tackle insurgency, banditry and kidnapping, stressing the need for sustained efforts to restore safety and protect lives across the country.
