Relatives plead for immediate intervention as kidnappers seek N150m ransom for abducted Niger government officials

Families of two abducted Niger State government officials are desperately seeking immediate intervention, as bandits are now demanding an additional N150 million for their release, despite having already received N70 million in ransom payments.

n

The two victims, Alhaji Ahmed Mohammed, a member of the State Independent National Electoral Commission, and Alhaji Alhassan Bawa Niworo, chairman of the Niger State Ward Development Project, were kidnapped on September 29, 2025, along the Mokwa–Ibbi–New Bussa road, along with their driver.

n

According to sources close to the families, the initial ransom demand was N30 million, which was paid, followed by an additional N40 million, yet the officials remain in captivity.

n

Despite the previous ransom payments, the bandits are now threatening to kill the abducted officials unless the fresh ransom of N150 million is paid, sparking widespread concern for their safety.

n

A relative, Alhaji Ayuba Abubakar, revealed that the driver who was abducted alongside the officials has already been killed, further heightening fears for the well-being of the two government officials.

n

Hajiya Kulu Mohammed Niworo, younger sister of one of the victims, has also made a heartfelt appeal to the authorities to secure the safe release of her brother and his colleague.

n

The families are urgently calling on security agencies and those in positions of authority to intervene immediately, to ensure the officials are rescued alive and reunited with their loved ones.