It is deeply painful that kidnapping has become a recurring issue in present-day Nigeria, involving innocent citizens and promising young professionals. Another distressing incident has been reported in Edo State involving two respected individuals with strong ties to Ambrose Alli University (AAU), Ekpoma.
According to reports, Dr. Abu Ibrahim Babatunde, a medical doctor currently undergoing his housemanship at the Edo State Teaching Hospital, Auchi, was forcefully abducted on the evening of his return from work. The incident occurred right in front of his residence along City College Road, Ibira Camp, Auchi, as he was attempting to open his gate. Dr. Babatunde is a member of the Abu family of the Iyetse Clan, Utsogun Heritage Zone, and an alumnus of Ambrose Alli University.
In a related development, Abu Momoh Tahir, a recent graduate of Human Nutrition and Dietetics from Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma, was reportedly kidnapped yesterday evening. He is well known within the university community as a former Students’ Union Government (SUG) Director of Sports, where he served actively before signing out.
These incidents have heightened fears among residents and students, as kidnapping cases continue to be reported across parts of Edo State. The repeated occurrence of such crimes raises serious concerns about public safety and security.
We hereby appeal to the Edo State Government, security agencies, and relevant Nigerian authorities to take immediate and decisive action to ensure the safe release of the abducted victims and to intensify efforts to curb the growing wave of kidnappings in the state. The lives of our people matter, and urgent intervention is needed to restore peace and security.
