In a tragic turn of events, kidnappers in Edo State have killed one of two brothers abducted from their Auchi residence at the start of the new year. The victim, Abu Momoh, was the younger sibling of a medical doctor who remains in captivity.
A New Year's Day Abduction Turns Deadly
Dr. Ibrahim Babatunde and his younger brother, Abu Momoh, were seized by armed men on January 1, 2026. The abduction occurred at their home on City Pride Road within the Igbira Camp area of Auchi. The kidnappers later contacted the family, making a staggering ransom demand of N200 million for the release of both brothers.
The family's hope for a safe resolution was shattered when the body of Abu Momoh was discovered. Their father, Tahir Momoh, confirmed the devastating news to Punch newspaper on Monday, January 5. He revealed that his son's corpse was found and buried on the same day.
"It is true that he was killed. He is the younger of the two brothers, and he has been buried," the grieving father stated. "The elder brother is still with the kidnappers. This is a very sad day for us, and we hope his elder brother will be released to us."
Escape Attempt and Police Confirmation
Circumstances surrounding the killing point to a possible escape attempt. A short video circulating online indicated the murder took place at Orley River, along the same City Pride Road in Igbira Camp. A source familiar with the incident suggested the victim was shot after trying to flee his captors.
"I was told he attempted to escape and was shot by the kidnappers," the source disclosed.
The Edo State Police Command, through its spokesperson ASP Eno Ikoedem, confirmed the grim discovery. She stated that the deceased was found dead in the bush during a police combing operation. "I can confirm that the deceased was found dead in the bush during bush-combing and the family identified him," Ikoedem said.
Community Alarm and Plea for Security
The incident has sent shockwaves through the Igbira Camp community, highlighting a growing security concern. A resident who gave his name as Abdul described the rate of kidnappings in the area as alarming and called for urgent police intervention.
"I think it is time for the police to beam their searchlight on the Igbira Camp community in Auchi, as the number of kidnappings in that area is alarming," Abdul urged. He attributed part of the problem to youth unemployment and a quest for easy money. "The earlier these criminal activities are curtailed, the better for Auchi and neighbouring communities. The government should also take decisive action so that the people can see that they matter."
Dr. Ibrahim Babatunde, the elder brother still held by the kidnappers, is a medical doctor undergoing his housemanship at the Edo State Teaching Hospital in Auchi. The brothers were reportedly ambushed while trying to enter their compound before being taken into the bush. The police continue their search as the family grapples with loss and prays for the safe return of their remaining son.
