The family of Dr. Abu Ibrahim Momoh Tahir, a medical doctor who was kidnapped in Edo State, has revealed that a ransom of ₦50 million was paid to secure his freedom, contradicting earlier reports suggesting he was rescued by local hunters and vigilantes in Auchi.
Dr. Tahir was kidnapped alongside his brother 13 days ago and was released following negotiations with the kidnappers, which involved staggered payments, according to his father, Dr. Ibrahim Tahir. Tragically, during the ordeal, Dr. Tahir’s brother, Abu Tahir, was killed while in captivity.
In an interview, Dr. Ibrahim Tahir disclosed that the kidnappers initially demanded ₦200 million, a figure that was later reduced to ₦100 million. Unfortunately, despite ongoing negotiations, one brother was murdered before the captors finally agreed to release Dr. Tahir after the family paid ₦50 million. The ransom was split into two payments of ₦20 million and ₦30 million.
This revelation puts to rest earlier claims that the doctor was rescued by local vigilante groups and hunters in Edo North Senatorial District.
The abduction generated significant public concern following a viral video featuring the victim’s mother, who tearfully appealed to both Nigerians and the international community for assistance in raising the funds needed for her son’s release. “No amount is too small. They should please have mercy on me and donate to help free my son from the kidnappers,” she pleaded. “They are demanding ₦100 million, which I cannot provide. Delay could be dangerous. I don’t want this one to be killed. He is a medical doctor serving the nation.”
Further details emerged regarding Dr. Tahir’s condition; sources indicate he was shot during the process of his release and is currently receiving medical care at an undisclosed hospital.
