Joe EBi
Gunmen who abducted two brothers in Auchi, Edo State, have demanded a ransom of ₦200 million for their release, later reducing the amount to ₦100 million following negotiations with the family.
The victims, identified as Ibrahim and Tahir Abu, were kidnapped on January 2 along City Pride Road, Igbira Camp area of Auchi, in Etsako West Local Government Area. Ibrahim is a medical doctor currently undergoing his housemanship at the Edo State Teaching Hospital, Auchi.
Speaking to journalists on Sunday, the father of the abducted brothers, Momoh Tahir, confirmed that the kidnappers had been in contact with the family since the abduction. He said the initial demand of ₦200 million was later reduced after discussions, adding that the family was still hoping for a further reduction.
“They have been in touch with us since they were kidnapped. They asked for ₦200 million but we were able to negotiate ₦100 million. We are still hoping that further discussion will lead to reduction of the ransom demanded,” he said.
Describing the ordeal as distressing, Tahir appealed for prayers and support, expressing hope that his children would return home safely. “It’s a trying period for the family but I pray that they would come back home safely,” he added.
The abduction has reportedly thrown the Iyetse Clan in the Utsogun Heritage Zone into panic. According to a family source, the brothers were seized in front of Ibrahim’s residence as he was attempting to open his gate after returning from work.
“The abduction occurred in front of his residence, off City Pride Road, Ibira Camp, Auchi, Edo State, while he was attempting to open his gate after returning from work,” the source said.
Describing the incident as alarming, the source added: “This is deeply disturbing and unacceptable. A young doctor whose only crime 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 immediately and ensure his safe and unconditional release.”
The Edo State Police Command has confirmed the incident and assured the public that intensive efforts are underway to rescue the victims. The Police Public Relations Officer, SP Eno Ikoedem, said the command received a distress call on the evening of January 2 and immediately mobilised operatives to the area.
“Yes, this unfortunate incident was brought to the attention of the Edo State Police Command on 2nd January, 2026 at about 8:30pm,” she said.
“Upon receipt of a distress call reporting the kidnapping of two brothers, Abu Ibrahim Babatunde and Abu Tahir, along City Pride Road, Igbira Camp, Auchi, the Divisional Police Officer, Auchi Divisional Headquarters, was immediately deployed to the scene and subsequently mobilised operatives in collaboration with vigilantes, Forest Guards, and Community Safety Partnership Volunteers who are well conversant with the forest terrain.”
SP Ikoedem added that security forces have been combing the surrounding forests since the incident was reported. “Aggressive search and rescue operations within the forest have been ongoing since last night, and the Command assures the family and the general public that no stone will be left unturned to ensure the safe rescue of the victims. Further developments will be communicated as events unfold,” she said.
The latest abduction has renewed concerns over insecurity in parts of Edo North, with residents calling for increased security presence and urgent measures to curb the activities of kidnappers in the area.
