Bandits have demanded an additional N300 million for the release of abducted Niger State Independent Electoral Commission (NSIEC) Permanent Commissioner Barrister Ahmed Mohammed, who has spent nine months in captivity despite his family paying N40 million ransom.
Barrister Ahmed was abducted by bandits along the Mokwa–Ibbi Road in Borgu Local Government Area on September 29, 2025, while travelling to Minna on an official assignment. He was kidnapped about four weeks before the local government elections held in the state on November 1, 2025.
Family Struggles to Meet New Ransom Demand
A family member, who spoke to Daily Trust on condition of anonymity, said the abductors had demanded an additional N300 million before they would release him. According to the source, the bandits contacted the family again on Monday, June 29, 2026 to ask whether they were ready to pay the fresh ransom demand, but the family said it could not raise the money.
“They (the bandits) call almost every day. It was only yesterday (Tuesday) that they did not call. We are appealing to the Niger State Government to come to our aid and secure his release. He was kidnapped while on an official engagement of the Niger State Government,” the family member said.
Health Concerns and Appeal for Intervention
A close friend of the victim, Ayuba Abubakar, also told the publication that the family had exhausted all efforts within its means to secure Barrister Ahmed’s release since his abduction. “We understand that the abductors have made demands, and we are also gravely concerned by reports that Barrister Ahmed’s health is seriously deteriorating. On behalf of his family, colleagues and well-wishers, I appeal for the urgent intervention of the Niger State Government and the support of all relevant security agencies to ensure his safe and immediate release,” he said.
The abduction highlights the persistent insecurity in Nigeria's North Central region, where banditry and kidnapping for ransom remain rampant despite government efforts. The Niger State Government has yet to issue an official statement on the matter.
