Niger: Terrorists demand extra N300m after family paid N40m for abducted INEC commissioner

Terrorists have demanded an additional N300 million ransom from the family of Niger State Independent Electoral Commission (NSIEC) Permanent Commissioner, Ahmed Mohammed, nine months after his abduction. The family has already paid N40 million to secure his release.

Mohammed was kidnapped on September 29, 2025, along the Mokwa–Ibbi Road in Borgu LGA while travelling to Minna for official duties, shortly before the November 1 local government elections.

A family member said the abductors contacted them on Monday with the fresh demand, but the family cannot raise the amount. They are appealing to the Niger State Government for assistance.

Key Points:

The family’s N40m payment brought no relief, only a higher demand
Families are trapped in a cycle of extortion that never ends
The abduction disrupts electoral processes and democratic functions
Security agencies have failed to secure the commissioner’s release
The government’s inaction forces families to pay or lose loved ones

The family is appealing to the Niger State Government for help. The commissioner remains in captivity after nine months.

Sources: DAILY POST Nigeria, Punch