By SUNTV Global Channel | January 15, 2026
A kidnapped medical doctor in Auchi, Edo State, Dr. Ibrahim Tahir, has regained his freedom after his family reportedly paid a ₦50 million ransom, but the relief of his release has been overshadowed by tragedy following the killing of his younger brother, who was abducted alongside him.
Dr. Tahir and his brother, Abu Tahir, a newly qualified medical doctor, were kidnapped on January 2, 2026, at their residence along City Pride Road, Igbira Camp, in Auchi, Etsako West Local Government Area.
According to community sources, the two brothers were attacked by armed men while opening the gate to their compound after returning from work. The gunmen whisked them away to an unknown location, triggering fear and outrage across Auchi and the wider medical community.
Brother Killed in Captivity
While negotiations for their release were ongoing, tragedy struck. Abu Tahir was brutally killed by the abductors while in captivity. His body was later found on January 5 near the Orle River, close to Down City Pride Road, Igbira Camp.
Sources familiar with the negotiations said the kidnappers initially demanded ₦200 million for the release of the two brothers. After Abu’s killing, the ransom demand reportedly fluctuated between ₦100 million and ₦40 million, before a final agreement of ₦50 million was reached.
The ransom was reportedly paid in two instalments—₦20 million and ₦30 million—after which Dr. Ibrahim Tahir was released.
Family Speaks Amid Grief
Confirming the development, the brothers’ father said the money was raised through combined efforts of the family, support from non-governmental organisations, and donations from friends and well-wishers.
“My son has been released after we paid ₦50 million. I am happy he is alive, but I have lost another son,” the grieving father said.
He disclosed that Dr. Tahir sustained a bullet graze on his leg during the ordeal and is currently receiving medical care at a hospital.
Vigilantes Clash With Kidnappers
Sources also revealed that shortly before Dr. Tahir’s release, local vigilantes and hunters reportedly engaged the kidnappers in a gun battle, during which one of the abductors sustained gunshot wounds.
The Edo State Police Command confirmed the doctor’s release. The command’s spokesperson, Eno Ikoedem, said:
“I can confirm to you that the doctor has been released.”
However, the police did not provide details on any arrests or recovery of weapons.
Medical Community Reacts
The abduction and killing have sparked widespread anger within the medical profession. In response, the Edo State chapter of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) directed doctors across the state to withdraw their services in protest over the kidnapping of two doctors and the killing of one.
The murder of Abu Tahir, a young doctor who had just completed his medical training, has further heightened concerns over rising kidnappings and worsening insecurity in Edo State.
For many residents and professionals, the tragedy has once again raised urgent questions about safety, law enforcement response, and the growing risks faced by healthcare workers in Nigeria.
— SUNTV Global Channel
