The abducted traditional ruler of Ndufu-Alike community in Ikwo Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, Ezeogo Francis Igwe, has been killed by his abductors.
Igwe, who is the father of former Deputy Governor of Ebonyi State, Kelechi Igwe, was kidnapped on Sunday, March 1, 2026, while heading to church in the Ndufu-Alike community.
Gunmen riding on a motorcycle were said to have intercepted his vehicle, forced him out, and took him to an unknown location.
The Ebonyi State Police Public Relations Officer, Joshua Ukandu, confirmed the incident on Friday, stating that the monarch was killed a day after the abduction.
Ukandu disclosed that immediately after the incident was reported, police operatives launched a rescue operation to locate the kidnapped traditional ruler.
He said the command deployed technical and intelligence resources which led to the arrest of two suspects believed to be members of the kidnapping gang.
The police spokesman noted that the suspects, during interrogation, confessed that the monarch had been killed on March 2, 2026, adding that they also offered to lead police operatives to their hideout and assist in locating the victim’s body.
However, Ukandu said when the police officers approached the hideout, other members of the gang opened fire on the operatives, leading to a gun battle.
Gunmen kidnap ex-Ebonyi deputy governor’s father
“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,” Ukandu said.
He stated that one of the suspects was killed during the exchange, while others fled the scene.
The police spokesperson added that seven more suspects were later arrested in connection with the crime, and a locally made pistol was recovered from them.
Ukandu said the suspects are currently in police custody, while efforts are ongoing to track down other members of the gang who escaped.
He added that the suspects will be charged to court after the completion of investigations.
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