News
Ndume Denies ₦5bn Ransom Allegation, Calls for Full Security Investigation
By Derick Peretengboro
Senator Ali Ndume has strongly rejected allegations that he received or handled a ₦5 billion ransom linked to kidnapping activities, insisting he has never seen ₦1 billion in cash throughout his life.
The lawmaker, who represents Borno South in the Senate, dismissed the claims during an appearance on Channels Television’s Politics Today. He described the accusations as false, dangerous, and capable of undermining national security efforts.
Responding to allegations made by Samaila Kaigama, identified as the leader of the Borno South Youth Alliance, Ndume said the matter should be thoroughly investigated rather than ignored.
According to the senator, he immediately contacted the Office of the National Security Adviser and the Department of State Services (DSS) after the allegations became public, urging both agencies to invite the accuser to provide evidence supporting the claims.
Ndume maintained that he has consistently opposed negotiating with terrorist groups or paying ransom to secure the release of kidnapping victims. He explained that his disagreement with Kaigama allegedly began after he refused requests to contribute money for ransom payments.
The senator further argued that making unverified accusations involving terrorism and ransom payments could have serious consequences for Nigeria’s security, especially given the continued activities of extremist groups in parts of the country.
Reaffirming his position, Ndume said he has never acted as an intermediary between kidnappers and the government or participated in ransom negotiations. He insisted that his only involvement was reporting the information to security agencies for appropriate action.
He also urged authorities to carry out an impartial investigation to establish the truth, stressing that issues relating to terrorism and ransom payments should be handled with utmost seriousness.
By staff Reporter Rukevwe Odeh
Nigeria’s petrol prices may face downward pressure following a fresh decline in international crude oil prices, amid growing optimism that diplomatic efforts to end the conflict between the United States and Iran could lead to the resumption of crude oil and petroleum product shipments through the strategic Strait of Hormuz.
The development could ease pressure on global oil markets, as the Strait of Hormuz remains a major international route for crude oil and petroleum product transportation.
A possible restoration of shipping activities through the waterway is expected to improve global supply and reduce concerns over disruptions that have contributed to fluctuations in oil prices.
By staff Reporter Rukevwe Odeh
The Presidency and presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, have exchanged words following allegations that officials of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) prevented him from greeting Nigeria’s victorious Under-17 women’s national football team, the Flamingos, at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja.
Obi alleged that NFF officials stopped him from approaching the players when he encountered the team at the airport on Monday, following their return from Morocco with the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup trophy.
In a statement issued through his media office, the former Anambra State governor said he had asked his protocol officer, Jackie Wayas, to find out whether he could welcome and congratulate the players.
By staff Reporter Rukevwe Odeh
Leader of the Warri South-West Legislative House and Chairman of the Delta State Councillors Forum, Rt. Hon. Ekpemupolo Idukedoumene Samuel, has warmly welcomed Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, alongside members of the Delta State APC Campaign Council, to Warri South-West Local Government Area.
The visit forms part of the party’s political engagements and mobilisation activities ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Ekpemupolo Samuel’s reception of the governor and his entourage underscores the involvement of political and legislative stakeholders in the party’s activities across the local government area.
The visit also provides an opportunity for party leaders, elected representatives and grassroots stakeholders to interact as the APC intensifies its political engagements across Delta State.
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