Kidnapped Ex‑Deputy Governor’s Father Found Dead as Police Nab Nine Suspects

Kidnapped Ex‑Deputy Governor’s Father Found Dead as Police Nab Nine Suspects

The Ebonyi State Police Command has confirmed that Ezeogo Francis Igwe, traditional ruler of Ndufu‑Alike community in Ikwo Local Government Area and father of former deputy governor Dr. Eric Kelechi Igwe, was killed by his abductors a day after being kidnapped on his way to church. The tragic development was disclosed in a statement by the state police public relations officer, SP Joshua Ukandu, in Abakaliki, the state capital.

The monarch was abducted on Sunday, March 1, 2026, by armed men riding motorcycles. Immediately following the incident, the Ebonyi State Government under Governor Francis Nwifuru directed security agencies to launch a coordinated rescue operation and ensure that the perpetrators were brought to justice. The governor described the abduction as “deeply troubling and totally unacceptable,” urging residents to assist authorities with credible information.

READ ALSO:

• Iran Police Authorised to Shoot Looters as US-Israel War Intensifies
• Oyo Police Free Four Kidnapped Passengers on Igbeti–Kishi Road
• FG Panel Confirms Ex‑Minister Uche Nnaji Forged His UNN Degree Certificate

Police said the operation involved intensive intelligence-driven surveillance and technical assets. During the initial investigation, officers arrested two primary suspects who admitted to being part of the kidnapping syndicate and confirmed that Igwe had been killed on March 2, 2026. These suspects also guided police to the gang’s hideout.

Upon reaching the location, other gang members opened fire on the security operatives, prompting a gunfight. One of the criminals was neutralised, while the rest fled. Police subsequently arrested seven additional suspects, bringing the total to nine in custody, and recovered a locally made pistol linked to the crime.

The remains of the late monarch were recovered and deposited at a morgue for autopsy. Police confirmed that efforts are ongoing to apprehend the remaining fleeing suspects, and those in custody will be charged to court upon conclusion of investigations.

The killing has left the Ndufu‑Alike community in mourning, with residents expressing shock and grief over the loss of a revered traditional ruler and father of a prominent political figure. Security agencies have vowed to continue tackling kidnapping and violent crime in the state.

Kidnapped Ex‑Deputy Governor’s Father Found Dead as Police Nab Nine Suspects