An abducted medical doctor, Dr. Ibrahim Tahir, has regained his freedom after his family paid a ransom of N50 million to his abductors, bringing a tragic kidnap ordeal to a painful close.
Dr. Tahir was kidnapped alongside his younger brother on January 2, 2026, at their family residence on City Pride Road, Igbira Camp, Auchi, Edo State. The incident occurred while they were opening the gate to their compound. Days later, tragedy struck when the body of his younger brother was discovered on January 5 near Orley River, along the same axis. He was reportedly killed by the abductors.
Speaking in a telephone interview on Thursday, the father of the victims confirmed that the ransom was paid in two tranches of N20 million and N30 million before Dr. Tahir was released on Wednesday evening at about 8:00 p.m. He explained that raising the ransom required collective efforts, including contributions from family members, non-governmental organisations, friends, and other well-wishers.
The distraught father described the mixed emotions surrounding his son’s release, expressing relief that one child survived while mourning the loss of another. He also disclosed that Dr. Tahir sustained a minor injury during captivity, as a bullet grazed his leg. According to him, the doctor is currently receiving medical treatment.
He further revealed that one of the kidnappers was reportedly injured after vigilantes and local hunters ambushed the criminal gang shortly before his son’s release.
Confirming the development, the Police Public Relations Officer of the Edo State Police Command, ASP Eno Ikoedem, said the doctor had indeed regained his freedom. “I can confirm to you that the doctor has been released,” she stated.
The incident has once again raised concerns over the growing menace of kidnapping and insecurity in parts of Edo State and the country at large.
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