Ndume rejects ransom as Boko Haram’s 72-hour ultimatum on Borno abductees nears deadline

As a 72-hour ultimatum issued by Boko Haram over the fate of 416 abducted residents of Muoshi community in Borno State approaches expiration, Senator Ali Ndume has insisted that no ransom should be paid to the insurgents, aligning himself with the federal government’s counterterrorism stance.

The victims were abducted in early March during a mass raid on the rural community in Borno South Senatorial District.

Although initial reports suggested over 500 people were taken, authorities later confirmed that 416 individuals remain in captivity.

Speaking on Arise Television, Senator Ndume described the incident as both “unbelievable and devastating,” noting that the victims are his constituents from a community located roughly 12 kilometres from the Maiduguri–Mubi highway.

“It was unbelievable, shocking, but it is true. These are my people… and it’s devastating for the community,” he said.

Tension escalated after Boko Haram released a video message issuing a 72-hour deadline, warning that the captives could be relocated to undisclosed locations if their demands were not met.

The group threatened that failure to comply would make rescue efforts more difficult, stating that victims—including women and children—could be moved beyond reach.

Security analysts say such threats are often intended to increase pressure on authorities and families while complicating rescue operations.

Ndume rejects ransom payments

Despite the heightened tension, Senator Ndume maintained a firm position against negotiating with or paying ransom to the insurgents, warning that doing so would further strengthen their operations.

“I stand with the government on this: we will not pay ransom,” he said.

READ ALSO: Boko Haram issues 72-hour ultimatum over 416 captives held in Borno (Video)

He reaffirmed that the federal government’s approach remains focused on lawful rescue efforts and security operations rather than concessions to terrorist groups.

Victims include Muslims and Christians

The senator also addressed sectarian narratives surrounding insurgent attacks, stressing that the abducted victims cut across religious lines.

According to him, more than 350 of those abducted are Muslims, with others being Christians, underscoring that Boko Haram’s attacks are indiscriminate.

“The captives are innocent civilians, both Christians and Muslims,” Ndume stated.

“There is no such thing as a ‘Christian genocide’ in my area. Boko Haram abducted everyone.”

Ndume disclosed that he has been in contact with security agencies and relevant authorities, who, according to him, are actively working on strategies to secure the victims’ release.

While declining to provide operational details, he emphasized the sensitivity of ongoing efforts, warning that public disclosure of security plans could jeopardize rescue missions.

“The terrorists have more information than you think,” he said, urging discretion in public discussions.

He added that intermediaries have been used to communicate appeals to the group, urging restraint and warning against further threats.

Growing concern over abductees

The abduction has intensified fears across affected communities in Borno State, where mass kidnappings by insurgent groups have remained a recurring security challenge.

The latest ultimatum has raised anxiety among families of the victims, as security forces continue efforts to track and secure the captives without conceding to insurgent demands.

For now, authorities have maintained that operations are ongoing, while political and security leaders continue to weigh diplomatic, intelligence, and tactical options to prevent further escalation and secure the safe return of the abducted residents.