Panic spread through the Edo medical community following the abduction of Dr. Abu Ibrahim Babatunde, a young house officer serving at the Edo State Teaching Hospital, Auchi. The incident occurred late Friday night in front of his residence, sending shockwaves across the town and raising fresh concerns over rising insecurity in the region.
According to witnesses, Abu, a member of the Abu family of the Iyetse Clan, Utsogun Heritage Zone, was kidnapped while trying to open his gate at Ibira Camp, Auchi, shortly after returning home from work. The armed assailants reportedly intercepted him before he could enter his compound and whisked him away in an unidentified vehicle.
As of the time of this report, it remains unclear whether the kidnappers have contacted the family or made any ransom demands. Residents in the area described the attack as sudden and terrifying, adding that gunmen have recently become more active around Auchi and neighbouring communities.
When contacted, the Edo State Police Command spokesperson, Eno Ikoedem, said the command was yet to receive full details of the abduction but confirmed that an investigation has been launched. Officers have reportedly been deployed to strategic points in Auchi and its outskirts to track down the perpetrators.
The incident comes barely weeks after Governor Monday Okpebholo vowed to intensify crackdowns on kidnappers and cultists across Edo State in 2026, reaffirming his administration’s zero-tolerance stance on violent crime.
The kidnapping has sparked outrage among residents and members of the medical community, who are calling on authorities to step up security around hospitals, residential areas, and rural highways. Edo North, particularly Auchi, Etsako, and Akoko-Edo, has witnessed repeated cases of abductions in recent months targeting traders, students, and professionals.
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Community leaders and civic groups in Auchi have appealed to both the state government and security agencies to act swiftly to ensure the safe return of the abducted doctor and restore public confidence.
The Edo State Teaching Hospital management is yet to release an official statement on the incident, but colleagues of Dr. Abu described him as a hardworking and dedicated physician passionate about serving rural communities.
Authorities are urging residents to remain calm and share any useful information that could help rescue the young doctor.
