Senator representing Borno South, Ali Ndume, has explained why he reported Kaigama to security agencies after becoming suspicious of requests linked to the payment of ransom allegedly demanded by Boko Haram.
Speaking on the matter, the lawmaker said Kaigama repeatedly contacted him, claiming the terrorist group was demanding ₦5 billion to secure the release of abducted victims.
According to Ndume, Kaigama sought to involve him in raising the money, a move he said immediately raised concerns.
“Kaigame wanted to use me for the payment of ransom. I cannot speak for the government if the ransom was paid or not. I do not and will never support the payment of ransom or negotiations with Boko Haram,” Ndume said.
The senator disclosed that his suspicion deepened when Kaigama requested that he personally contribute towards the ransom payment.
“I began suspecting Kaigame when he demanded that I contribute towards the payment of ransom,” he said.
Ndume added that Kaigama attempted to pressure him by suggesting that people from his constituency were among those being held captive and accusing him of refusing to support efforts to secure their release.
“He threatened that my people are in captivity, and I don’t want to donate towards their release. I did my best to connect him with security agencies and the right authorities,” he stated.
The lawmaker maintained that he has consistently opposed the payment of ransom to terrorist groups, insisting that such actions only embolden criminal organisations and undermine efforts to combat insurgency.
(The Sun)