Abducted Edo doctor regains freedom after N50m ransom

An abducted medical doctor, Dr Ibrahim Tahir, has regained his freedom after his family paid a ransom of N50 million to his abductors.

PUNCH Online reports that Tahir was kidnapped alongside his younger brother on January 2, 2026, at their residence on City Pride Road, Igbira Camp, Auchi, while opening the gate to their compound.

Tragically, the younger brother’s body was found near Orley River, along City Pride Road, Igbira Camp, on January 5.

He is reported to have been killed by the abductors.

The father of the victims, in a telephone conversation with our correspondent on Thursday, said the ransom was paid in two tranches of N20 million and N30 million before his son was released on Wednesday evening at around 8:00 p.m.

He explained that it took the combined efforts of the family, donations from non-governmental organisations, friends, and other well-wishers to raise the ransom for his son’s release.

He also revealed that a bullet grazed Tahir’s leg during the ordeal, and that one of the kidnappers sustained gunshot injuries after being ambushed by vigilantes and hunters before the doctor’s release.

He said, “My son has been released by the kidnappers after we paid N50 million. I feel good that he is free, but I have also lost another son.

“The family, organisations, friends, and well-wishers contributed the N50 million ransom. My son was grazed by a bullet, but he is receiving treatment at a hospital.”

The Police Public Relations Officer for the Edo State Police Command, Eno Ikoedem, confirmed the release of the victim on Thursday.

When contacted via a telephone call, she said, “I can confirm to you that the doctor has been released.” (Punch)