The traditional ruler of Ndufu-Alike community in Ebonyi State, Ezeogo Francis Igwe, has been killed by his kidnappers.
Igwe, father of former Ebonyi State deputy governor Kelechi Igwe, was reportedly abducted on Sunday, March 1, 2026, while heading to church within the Ndufu-Alike community.
Gunmen riding on motorbike, according to media reports, intercepted his vehicle, forcibly evicted him from the car and took him to an unknown location.
The spokesman of Ebonyi State Command, Joshua Ukandu, confirmed that the paramount ruler was later killed a day after the abduction.
Ukandu noted that immediately after the incident, operatives of the command began coordinated efforts to secure the monarch’s release.
“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.
He further disclosed that police deployed technical and intelligence resources which led to the arrest of two suspects believed to be part of the gang responsible for the abduction.
During interrogation, the suspects reportedly admitted that the monarch had been killed on March 2, 2026. They also offered to guide security operatives to their hideout and assist in locating the victim’s remains.
Ukandu added that when officers moved towards the hideout, other gang members opened fire on them, resulting in a gun duel.
“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,” he stated.
Police said one of the suspects was neutralised during the exchange, while others managed to escape.
Further operations led to the arrest of seven additional suspects allegedly connected to the crime, and a locally made pistol was recovered from them.
Ukandu said the suspects remain in police custody as security operatives intensify efforts to apprehend other fleeing members of the gang.
“They will be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations,” Ukandu added.
He also confirmed that the remains of the slain monarch were later recovered and deposited in a mortuary for autopsy.
