Family Cries for Help as Bandits Demand Fresh ₦300m for Electoral Commissioner

The abducted Permanent Commissioner of the Niger State Independent Electoral Commission (NSIEC), Barrister Ahmed Mohammed, has remained in captivity nine months after his family reportedly paid ₦40 million ransom in an effort to secure his release.
Barrister Ahmed was kidnapped by bandits on September 29, 2025, along the Mokwa–Ibbi Road in Borgu Local Government Area while travelling to Minna on an official assignment.
His abduction occurred about four weeks before the November 1, 2025, local government elections in Niger State.
A family member, who spoke to Daily Trust on condition of anonymity, disclosed that the kidnappers are now demanding an additional ₦300 million before releasing him.
According to the source, the bandits contacted the family again on Monday to inquire whether they were prepared to pay the fresh ransom demand, but the family explained that 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.
A close friend of the victim, Ayuba Abubakar, also told Daily Trust that the family had exhausted all available means to secure Barrister Ahmed’s freedom since his abduction.
He expressed concern over reports that the electoral commissioner’s health has continued to deteriorate while in captivity.
“We understand that the abductors have made demands, and we are also gravely concerned by reports that Barr. 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. (Daily Trust).