Gunmen who abducted two brothers, Ibrahim and Tahir Abu, in Auchi, Edo State, have demanded a staggering N200 million ransom for their release, deepening fears over the worsening security situation in the state.
The brothers were kidnapped on January 2 along City Pride Road, Igbira Camp area of Auchi. Their father, Mr Momoh Tahir, confirmed that the abductors established contact with the family shortly after the incident, insisting on an initial ransom of N200 million.
He disclosed that after prolonged negotiations, the kidnappers agreed to slash the demand to N100 million, while the family continued to appeal for further reduction amid mounting anxiety.
“They have been in touch with us since the kidnapping. They first demanded N200 million, but we were able to negotiate it down to N100 million. We are still hoping further discussions will bring the amount down,” he said.
Describing the period as deeply distressing, Mr Tahir expressed hope that his sons would return home safely, noting that the family was relying on prayers and the intervention of security agencies.
The Edo State Police Command confirmed the abduction, stating that search-and-rescue operations commenced immediately after a distress call was received at about 8:30pm on the day of the incident. The command’s spokesperson, SP Eno Ikoedem, said operatives were deployed to the scene and surrounding forest routes.
According to her, the police are working in collaboration with vigilantes, forest guards and community safety volunteers familiar with the terrain to track the kidnappers and rescue the victims. She assured that the command was fully committed to ensuring their safe return.
One of the abducted brothers, Ibrahim Abu, is a medical doctor currently undergoing his housemanship at the Edo State Teaching Hospital, Auchi. A family source revealed that he was kidnapped in front of his residence while attempting to open his gate after returning from work.
The source described the incident as disturbing, stressing that a young doctor devoted to saving lives had now become a victim of criminality. The family appealed to security agencies and the Edo State Government to intensify efforts towards the brothers’ unconditional release.
