The abducted traditional ruler of the Ndufu-Alike community in Ikwo Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, Ezeogo Francis Igwe, has been killed by his kidnappers, the police confirmed on Friday.
Igwe, who is the father of former Deputy Governor Kelechi Igwe, was abducted on Sunday, March 1, 2026, while on his way to church in the Ndufu-Alike community. Armed men on a motorcycle intercepted his vehicle, forced him out, and took him to an unknown location.
The Police Public Relations Officer, Joshua Ukandu, said the monarch was killed the day after his abduction. He explained that police operatives immediately launched intensive operations to rescue the traditional ruler.
“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.
The police arrested two suspects believed to be members of the kidnapping syndicate. During interrogation, the suspects confessed to killing the monarch on March 2, 2026, and agreed to lead police to the hideout to recover his remains.
Ukandu disclosed that when operatives approached the hideout, other gang members opened fire, prompting a gunbattle. One of the criminals was neutralised, while others fled. Subsequent operations led to the arrest of seven more suspects and the recovery of a locally made pistol.
The suspects are currently in police custody, and authorities are pursuing the remaining fleeing members of the gang. Ukandu added that the suspects will be charged to court once investigations are concluded.
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, who was widely respected in the community.
