Gunmen Demand N200 Million Ransom for Abducted Medical Doctor, Brother in Edo

Gunmen have demanded a ransom of ₦200 million for the release of two brothers, Ibrahim Abu, a medical doctor, and his sibling, Tahir Abu, who were abducted in Auchi, Edo State.

The brothers were kidnapped on Friday, January 2, along City Pride Road in the Igbira Camp area of Auchi. Their father, Momoh Tahir, confirmed on Sunday that the abductors had established contact with the family and initially demanded ₦200 million as ransom.

According to him, negotiations with the kidnappers led to a reduction of the ransom to ₦100 million, with the family hoping further discussions would result in an additional concession. He described the ordeal as traumatic and appealed for prayers for the safe return of his children.

“They have been communicating with us since the abduction. They first demanded ₦200 million, but after negotiations, it was reduced to ₦100 million. We are still hopeful that further talks will bring the amount down,” Tahir said. “It has been a very difficult time for the family, and our prayer is that they return home safely.”

The Edo State Police Command confirmed the incident, saying search-and-rescue operations commenced immediately after the abduction was reported. The Police Public Relations Officer, Eno Ikoedem, said the command received a distress call at about 8:30 p.m. on January 2.

She explained that the Divisional Police Officer in Auchi was promptly deployed to the scene and mobilised operatives, working in collaboration with vigilantes, forest guards, and community safety volunteers familiar with the terrain.

“Aggressive search and rescue operations within the forest have been ongoing since the report was received,” Ikoedem said, assuring the family and the public that the command would leave no stone unturned to ensure the safe rescue of the victims. She added that further updates would be provided as the operation progresses.

Ibrahim Abu is currently undergoing his housemanship at the Edo State Teaching Hospital in Auchi. A family source disclosed that he was abducted in front of his residence while attempting to open his gate after returning from work.

“This is deeply disturbing and unacceptable,” the source said. “A young doctor whose only offence is serving humanity has now become another victim of insecurity. We call on security agencies, the Edo State Government, and all relevant authorities to act swiftly to secure his safe and unconditional release.”