‘We’ll not pay’– Ndume rejects ransom as Boko Haram 72-hour ultimatum over 416 victims nears deadline

Senator Ali Ndume has opposed ransom payments as Boko Haram’s 72-hour ultimatum over 416 abducted victims in Borno State approaches its deadline.

Senator Ali Ndume has rejected calls for ransom payments as a 72-hour ultimatum issued by Boko Haram over 416 abducted victims in Borno State nears expiration.

The victims, kidnapped from Muoshi village in early March, remain in captivity, with Ndume confirming that the number stands at 416 after initial reports suggested over 500. Speaking during an interview on Arise TV, the Borno South lawmaker described the incident as devastating for his constituency. “It was unbelievable, shocking, but it is true. These are my people, from my local government, and it’s devastating for the community,” he said. “I know the place well; it’s a 12-kilometer drive from the Maiduguri-Mubi road.”

In a video released by the insurgents, the group warned that the captives could be relocated if their demands are not met, stating, “If our demands are not met, we will move these victims, including women and children, to different locations… you may never see them again.” Ndume, however, stressed that the victims include both Christians and Muslims, countering claims of targeted religious violence. “The captives are innocent civilians, both Christians and Muslims,” he said, adding, “The abductions show there is no such thing as ‘Christian genocide’ in my area. Boko Haram abducted everyone.” He reaffirmed his stance against ransom payments, insisting, “I stand with the government on this: we will not pay ransom.”

READ THE FULL STORY IN PM NEWS