A shocking kidnapping case that rocked Auchi, Edo State, has taken a dramatic twist after the suspected abductors of Dr. Abu Babatunde and his younger brother were reportedly arrested in the same hospital where the surviving victim works.
How the Kidnapping Happened
The incident began on January 2, 2026, when two brothers — Dr. Abu Ibrahim Babatunde (a House Officer at Specialist Hospital, Auchi) and his younger brother Abu Tahir (a newly graduated medical doctor) — were abducted at the gate of their residence in City Pride Road, Igbira Camp, Auchi.
They were reportedly ambushed by armed men and taken to an unknown location.
Ransom, Fear, and a Tragic Death
The kidnappers initially demanded a massive ransom, reportedly as high as ₦200 million, though some reports stated ₦100 million.
Their mother’s emotional plea for help later went viral online as the family struggled to raise funds.
Tragedy struck during captivity when Tahir reportedly tried to escape — and was shot/killed by the abductors.
Dr. Babatunde was later released around January 15, 2026, after a ransom reportedly reduced to ₦50 million was paid.
Police Begin Tracking the Gang
Following the incident, Edo Police launched an intelligence-led operation.
On February 3, 2026, one suspect identified as Saminu Kawujie was arrested during a forest operation, with items recovered.
The Shocking Twist: Arrest Inside the Hospital
In what many Nigerians now describe as “instant karma”, the remaining suspects — Idris Abubakar and Sani Abubakar — were reportedly arrested around February 8/9, 2026, after bringing their sick child to the Specialist Hospital, Auchi for emergency treatment.
The twist?
Dr. Babatunde had returned to work and recognized them as the men who kidnapped him and killed his brother.
He allegedly alerted hospital authorities and security operatives discreetly, leading to their arrest.
Suspects Now in Custody
All three suspects are currently in custody at the Auchi Divisional Police Station, as investigations continue to identify other members of the kidnapping network.
Public Reaction
The story has gone viral nationwide, with Nigerians calling it:
- Divine justice
- Instant karma
- A painful reminder of insecurity
- A miracle survival for Dr. Babatunde
💔 May the soul of Dr. Tahir Abu rest in peace.
Related: U.S.-Based NGO Issues Security Alert Over Alleged Planned Attacks in Plateau Communities
