The family of a medical doctor abducted in Edo State has disclosed that a ransom of ₦50 million was paid to secure his release, contradicting earlier reports that he was rescued by local hunters and vigilantes in Auchi.
Dr Abu Ibrahim Momoh Tahir, who was kidnapped alongside his brother 13 days ago, regained his freedom after his family negotiated with the kidnappers and made staggered payments, his father has confirmed. Tragically, the doctor’s brother, Abu Tahir, was killed while in captivity.
Speaking on the development, the victim’s father, Dr Ibrahim Tahir, revealed that the kidnappers initially demanded ₦200 million, which was later reduced to ₦100 million. Despite the negotiations, the captors killed one of the brothers before finally agreeing to release the surviving doctor after receiving ₦50 million.
According to the family, the ransom was paid in two instalments of ₦20 million and ₦30 million, after which Dr Tahir was freed.
The disclosure puts to rest claims circulating earlier that the doctor was rescued through the efforts of hunters and local vigilante groups in Auchi, Edo North Senatorial District.
The ordeal sparked widespread public concern after the mother of the abducted doctor appeared in a viral video, tearfully appealing to Nigerians and the international community to help raise funds for her son’s release.
“Whoever has, nothing is too small. They should please have mercy on me and donate to enable me to free my son from the hands of 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.”
She added that her son was abducted on his way home from work and appealed for urgent intervention to prevent further tragedy.
Uptown Press learnt that Dr Tahir sustained gunshot injuries during the process of his release and is currently receiving treatment at an undisclosed hospital.
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