Anguish and outrage have gripped Auchi, Edo State, following the abduction of a medical doctor, Dr Abu Babatunde, and the killing of one of his brothers by suspected kidnappers.
The doctor’s family has revealed that the abductors are demanding a staggering ₦100 million ransom, a sum they say is far beyond their means. The tragedy has sparked renewed fears over worsening insecurity in the state and the growing risks faced by healthcare workers.
In an emotional appeal, Dr Babatunde’s wife described the ordeal as a nightmare the family never imagined. Fighting back tears, she called on members of the public for prayers, financial support and solidarity as the family struggles to cope with both loss and uncertainty.
“With teary eyes and a heavy heart, I appeal to the public for prayers, support and financial assistance during this extremely painful time,” she said.
She explained that her husband and his brother were forcefully taken from their residence by armed men, who later contacted the family with the ransom demand. The situation took a tragic turn when the kidnappers reportedly killed the younger brother, identified
Confirming the death, the victims’ father, Tahir Momoh, described it as a devastating blow to the family, compounding the trauma of having another son still in captivity.
The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) has condemned the attack and announced plans to suspend medical services across Edo State in protest. The association is demanding urgent and concrete action from the authorities to improve security and protect healthcare professionals.
Security sources earlier confirmed that two brothers were abducted on 2 January 2026 along City Pride Road, Igbira Camp, Auchi, while returning home from work. Since then, colleagues and friends of the abducted doctor have flooded social media with appeals for help, stressing that every contribution, no matter how small, could help save his life.
The incident has once again drawn attention to the rising wave of kidnappings in Edo State, particularly the disturbing trend of targeting professionals. As of the time of filing this report, authorities have yet to provide details on rescue efforts or any arrests linked to the case.
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