Kidnapping in Auchi leaves family devastated as younger sibling is murdered. Authorities continue search for elder brother while community fears rising violence.
Edo State is once again in the spotlight over rising insecurity, as a tragic kidnapping in Auchi claimed the life of Abu Momoh, the younger of two brothers abducted earlier this month.
The brothers were abducted at their home along City Pride Road, Igbira Camp, Auchi, on January 1, 2026, shocking residents and reigniting fears about security in the area.
According to the family, the abductors contacted them on Saturday, demanding a staggering ransom of N200 million to secure the release of the brothers.
Unfortunately, the negotiations turned deadly when the younger brother, Abu Momoh, was found lifeless on Monday, January 5.
His father, Tahir Momoh, confirmed the death to Punch and revealed that the body was discovered in the morning and buried the same day.
“It is true that he was killed. He is the younger of the two brothers, and he has been buried.
“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 safely,” the grieving father said.
A short video circulating online appeared to show Abu Momoh’s fatal shooting by his captors near Orley River, along City Pride Road, Igbira Camp. Sources indicate that the victim may have attempted to escape before being shot.
“I was told he tried to flee and was shot by the abductors,” a local source said.
The elder sibling, Dr. Ibrahim Babatunde, who was abducted alongside his brother, remains in the hands of the criminals.
Ibrahim is currently completing his housemanship at Edo State Teaching Hospital, Auchi.
Eyewitnesses said both brothers were taken into the bush while attempting to enter their compound.
The incident has raised serious concerns among residents of Igbira Camp, who say the frequency of kidnapping in their community has become alarming.
One local, Abdul, urged authorities to increase patrols and security measures, noting that some youths are seeking “easy money” through criminal acts rather than gainful employment.
“I think it is time for the police to focus on Igbira Camp, as the number of kidnappings is alarming. The government must take decisive action so that the community feels protected,” Abdul said.
The Edo State Police Command confirmed the recovery of Abu Momoh’s body during a combing operation in the bush.
Spokesperson ASP Eno Ikoedem stated that the deceased was formally identified by the family as the younger brother of the abducted medical doctor.
“I can confirm that the deceased was found dead in the bush, and the family identified him,” she said.
Authorities have intensified efforts to locate Dr. Ibrahim and secure his release.
While the police continue their search, the tragedy has highlighted the ongoing security challenges in Edo State, particularly in Auchi and surrounding areas, where criminal activities, including kidnapping for ransom, have become increasingly frequent.
Security analysts say that the rise in abductions in Edo State is linked to socioeconomic factors, including high unemployment, poverty, and the lure of quick financial gain.
Communities like Igbira Camp, where both brothers were taken, have reported multiple cases of abduction over the past few years, fueling fear and uncertainty among residents.
Families of victims often face extreme emotional and financial strain, as ransom demands sometimes reach hundreds of millions of naira.
In this case, the demand for N200 million underscores the audacity of criminal gangs and their willingness to commit murder when victims or their families are unable to meet the demands.
Local residents are calling for urgent government action to tackle the growing wave of kidnapping, urging better surveillance, more police presence, and swift prosecution of offenders to deter potential criminals.
“If nothing is done, more lives will be lost. The people of Auchi deserve to feel safe in their homes,” Abdul said.
As the search for the elder brother continues, the tragic death of Abu Momoh serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by kidnapping in Edo State.
Security agencies are under pressure to provide results, as communities demand accountability and protection from violent crimes.
The incident has also sparked debate over preventive measures, including increased community policing, intelligence gathering, and public awareness campaigns to educate residents about the risks of kidnapping and how to respond safely in abduction situations.
While Edo State authorities investigate the case and attempt to rescue Dr. Ibrahim, the community of Auchi remains on edge.
Residents hope that decisive action will not only bring the elder brother home safely but also curb the surge in kidnapping and restore a sense of security in the region.
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