Ndume Calls For US Military Presence In Mandara Mountains

The lawmaker made the appeal during an interview on Channels TV, monitored by Persecondnews on Sunday evening on the security situation in Borno State and the recent rescue of kidnap victims held in captivity by insurgents.

Ndume said stronger international collaboration is necessary to cut off terrorist supply routes and prevent insurgents from regrouping within difficult terrains around border communities in the state.

“I am appealing that the Americans should go to Gwoza and take over Mandara Mountain because it will cut down terrorist movements, block their supply routes and help security forces weaken insurgents operating around the Northeast region,” Ndume said.

The senator also expressed confidence that insurgents occupying the Mandara Mountains can be dislodged within a short period if the military intensifies operations with adequate intelligence, equipment, and coordinated support from all security agencies involved in counterterrorism operations.

“With serious and sustained military operations supported by intelligence gathering and adequate equipment, the terrorists hiding in Mandara Mountain can be cleared completely because they are becoming weaker and losing their operational strength gradually,” he stated.

Ndume further dismissed speculation that ransom was paid for the release of recently rescued kidnap victims in Borno State, insisting that the operation was carried out through credible intelligence.

“This rescue operation was purely the effort of the military and other security agencies working together after careful planning, intelligence gathering and coordination, so I do not believe any ransom payment was involved in securing their freedom,” he said.

The senator, however, warned members of the ruling All Progressives Congress against underestimating the opposition ahead of the 2027 general elections, saying political realities must be confronted honestly by party leaders and supporters across the country.

“I do not take opponents for granted because politics is very dynamic, and anybody who believes the opposition cannot pose a serious challenge in 2027 may be making a costly political mistake,” Ndume added.

He also commended President Bola Tinubu for approving the continuation of a major road project linking parts of the Northeast, describing the development as a major relief for residents affected by years of insecurity.