Doctors in Edo North Senatorial District have staged a protest over the abduction of two medical practitioners and the killing of one of them by suspected kidnappers, demanding urgent action from the government and security agencies.
The victims, identified as Abu Ibrahim, a house officer at Edo University Teaching Hospital, Iyamho, and his younger brother, Abu Tahir, a newly qualified medical doctor from Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma, were abducted on January 1, 2026.
They were reportedly kidnapped at about 7:30 pm at the gate of their residence along City Pride Road, Igbira Camp, Auchi, in Etsako West Local Government Area, shortly after returning from work.
According to reports, the abductors initially demanded a ransom of ₦200 million. Despite the payment negotiations, the kidnappers later killed Abu Tahir, while his elder brother, Abu Ibrahim, remains in captivity. The gunmen are now said to be demanding ₦100 million for his release.
Angered by the development, doctors under the umbrella of the Nigerian Medical Association, Edo North, embarked on a protest march across Auchi and its environs, calling for the immediate and unconditional release of their colleague and an end to killings in the area.
Speaking during the protest, the NMA chairman in the zone, Dr Ifijeh Patrick, said the demonstration was aimed at drawing the attention of the government, security agencies, traditional rulers, and other stakeholders to the worsening insecurity threatening the lives of healthcare workers.
“This protest is to tell the authorities that doctors are no longer safe. We save lives every day, yet our own lives are constantly under threat,” Patrick said.
He added that the killing of their colleague had left many doctors traumatised and fearful of going to work.
“We are no longer safe going to work or returning home. This must stop. Our demands are simple: secure the release of the kidnapped doctor, stop the killings, and make Edo North safe for everyone,” he stated.
The protesting doctors also visited the Palace of the Otaru of Auchi, Edo University Teaching Hospital, Auchi, Edo University, Iyamho, and the Police Area Command in Auchi, where they expressed deep concern over the deteriorating security situation in the region.
Dr Patrick appealed to traditional institutions and security authorities to use their influence to support efforts aimed at restoring peace and protecting lives.
He further warned that if their demands were not met within 72 hours, doctors across Edo State would embark on a total shutdown of medical services.
“This warning is a last resort to compel the government to take decisive action against kidnapping and violent crimes in our communities,” he said.
