Kidnapped Nigerian Doctor Freed as Brother Is Killed

A Nigerian medical Doctor, Abu Ibrahim, who was kidnapped in Edo State alongside his brother earlier this month, has been discharged from hospital, bringing closure to a harrowing ordeal that has again drawn attention to the worsening security situation.

Ibrahim, who sustained a gunshot wound during his release, is now recovering at home, according to his father, Tahir Momoh, who confirmed the update on Wednesday.

In an emotional message shared publicly, the Doctor expressed deep gratitude to friends, colleagues, organisations, and strangers who supported his family during what he described as the darkest period of his life.

He recalled that the abduction occurred on January 2, when he and his brother were returning home from work.

“Many people I had never met personally showed extraordinary compassion,” Ibrahim said, noting that the support came through prayers, encouragement, and financial contributions. “Your kindness reminded me that even in the darkest times, humanity still shines.”

While Ibrahim survived the captivity, his younger brother was killed by the kidnappers, intensifying public concern over the surge in abductions across Africa’s most populous Nation. Despite efforts by the family to secure their release, only one of the brothers returned alive.

Paying tribute to his fallen sibling, the Doctor said he would honour his brother’s memory daily and seek divine strength to fulfil his dreams and uphold the legacy he left behind. He added that he was leaving judgment to God, trusting in divine justice.

Momoh also acknowledged the support of community groups, professional bodies, and prominent individuals, as well as the efforts of local vigilantes and Nigeria’s security agencies, including the Police, the Department of State Services, and the Military. He further praised the media for keeping the case in public view throughout the ordeal.

The Edo State Police Command earlier confirmed that the brothers were abducted on January 2 while attempting to access their residence after work. Ibrahim was later released after a reported ₦50 million ransom was paid, but not before he sustained a gunshot injury. His brother, however, was killed by the abductors.

The incident adds to growing international concern over Nigeria’s kidnapping-for-ransom epidemic and its human cost