Senator Ali Ndume, representing Borno South, has denied allegations linking him to ransom payments in kidnapping cases, stating he has “never in his life” seen ₦1 billion in cash.
Speaking on Politics Today on Channels Television, Ndume dismissed claims made by Samaila Kaigame, who identified himself as leader of the Borno South Youth Alliance and accused the lawmaker of acting as a ransom intermediary.
Ndume, one of the longest-serving members of the Senate, said he immediately reported the allegations to Nigeria’s National Security Adviser and the Department of State Services (DSS), urging authorities to investigate the claims thoroughly.
“I have never seen ₦1 billion cash, not to talk of ₦5 billion,” Ndume said during the interview.
He added that he requested a formal inquiry where both parties could present evidence, stressing that the issue has serious national security implications.
The senator reiterated his stance against negotiating with insurgent groups, including Boko Haram and ISWAP, saying he does not support ransom payments under any circumstances.
Ndume suggested that his refusal to contribute to ransom demands may have triggered the accusations, which he described as “contradictory and uncoordinated.”
Authorities have yet to publicly respond to the allegations or confirm whether a formal investigation is underway.
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