An abducted doctor regains freedom after his family paid a ₦50m ransom, though his younger brother was killed during captivity

An abducted medical doctor, Dr Ibrahim Tahir, has regained his freedom after his family paid a ₦50 million ransom to his abductors, ending nearly two weeks of captivity marked by tragedy and fear.

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Dr Tahir was kidnapped alongside his younger brother on January 2, 2026, at their family residence on City Pride Road, Igbira Camp, Auchi, while they were opening the gate to their compound.

The ordeal took a grim turn on January 5, when the body of the younger brother was discovered near Orley River, along the same axis. He was reportedly killed by the abductors.

Speaking in a telephone interview on Thursday, the victims’ father confirmed that the ransom was paid in two instalments of ₦20 million and ₦30 million, leading to Dr Tahir’s release on Wednesday evening at about 8:00 p.m.

He explained that raising the ransom required collective efforts from the family, non-governmental organisations, friends, and other well-wishers.

“My son has been released by the kidnappers after we paid ₦50 million. I feel relief that he is free, but I have also lost another son,” the grieving father said.

He disclosed that Dr Tahir sustained a bullet graze to his leg during the ordeal and is currently receiving medical attention at a hospital.

The father also revealed that one of the abductors suffered gunshot injuries after being ambushed by vigilantes and local hunters shortly before the doctor’s release, describing the episode as harrowing.

Confirming the development, the Police Public Relations Officer of the Edo State Police Command, Eno Ikoedem, said the victim had been safely released.

“I can confirm that the doctor has been released,” she stated.

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The incident has renewed concerns over worsening insecurity and kidnapping in Edo State and other parts of the country, with residents calling for stronger security measures to prevent further loss of lives.