K!dnapped Father of Former Ebonyi Deputy Governor Found Déad

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

Igwe, father of former Ebonyi deputy governor Kelechi Igwe, was abducted 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 whisked him away to an unknown location.

Confirming the development, the Police Public Relations Officer of the Ebonyi State Command, Joshua Ukandu, said the monarch was killed a day after the 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,” he said.

Ukandu explained that through technical and intelligence efforts, two suspects believed to be members of the kidnapping syndicate were arrested. During interrogation, the suspects reportedly confessed that the monarch had been killed on March 2 and offered to lead police to their hideout and the location of the body.

However, when operatives approached the hideout, other gang members opened fire, leading to a gun battle.

“Upon approaching the hideout, other members of the gang opened fire on the operatives. The operatives responded with superior firepower, which overwhelmed the gang,” Ukandu said.

One of the criminals was killed in the exchange, while others fled. Police later arrested seven additional suspects linked to the crime and recovered a locally made pistol.

The suspects are currently in custody and will be charged to court after investigations, while efforts continue to track down the fleeing members of the gang.

Ukandu added that the remains of the slain monarch have been recovered and deposited in a mortuary for autopsy.