ABDUCTED EX-EBONYI DEPUTY GOVERNOR’S FATHER KILLED BY KIDNAPPERS

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By: Sefiu Ajape

The abducted traditional ruler of Ndufu-Alike community in Ikwo LGA, Ebonyi State, Ezeogo Francis Igwe, has been killed by his kidnappers.

Igwe, father of former deputy governor Kelechi Igwe, was kidnapped on Sunday, March 1, 2026, while on his way to church in the Ndufu-Alike community. Armed men riding a motorcycle intercepted his vehicle, forced him out, and took him to an unknown location.

The Police Public Relations Officer of the Ebonyi State Command, Joshua Ukandu, confirmed that the monarch was killed a day after his abduction.

“Following the kidnapping of HRH Eze Francis Igwe on 1st March 2026, operatives of the Ebonyi State Command immediately commenced intensive operations aimed at rescuing the kidnapped monarch,” Ukandu said.

Through the use of technical and intelligence resources, police arrested two suspects believed to be members of the kidnapping syndicate. During interrogation, the suspects reportedly confessed that the monarch had been killed on March 2, 2026, and offered to lead operatives to the hideout and assist in recovering his remains.

Ukandu further said, “However, upon approaching the hideout, other members of the gang opened fire on the operatives. The operatives responded with superior firepower, which overwhelmed the gang.” One suspect was neutralised during the confrontation, while others fled.

Police later arrested seven more suspects in connection with the crime and recovered a locally made pistol.

“They will be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations,” Ukandu added. The remains of the slain monarch were recovered and deposited in a mortuary for autopsy.

The killing has plunged the Ndufu-Alike community into mourning, as residents grapple with the loss of their traditional ruler.