The traditional ruler of Ndufu-Alike community in Ikwo Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, Ezeogo Francis Igwe, has been killed by his abductors. Igwe, the father of former deputy governor Kelechi Igwe, was kidnapped on Sunday, March 1, 2026, while traveling to church in his community.
Eyewitnesses said armed men on a motorcycle intercepted his vehicle, forcibly removed him, and took him to an undisclosed location.
The Police Public Relations Officer of the Ebonyi State Command, Joshua Ukandu, confirmed that the monarch was killed a day after the abduction. He explained that police immediately launched intensive operations to secure the traditional ruler’s release.
“Following the kidnapping of HRH Eze Francis Igwe on March 1, 2026, our operatives commenced intensive operations aimed at rescuing him,” Ukandu said.
He further stated that two suspects, believed to be members of the kidnapping gang, were arrested through intelligence-led operations. During interrogation, the suspects admitted to killing the monarch on March 2 and volunteered to lead police to the location of his remains.
When police approached the hideout, other gang members opened fire, prompting a gunbattle. The police responded with superior firepower, neutralising one suspect while others escaped. Subsequently, seven additional suspects were arrested, and one locally made pistol was recovered.
Ukandu added that the suspects are in custody, and investigations are ongoing to apprehend remaining fleeing members. The recovered remains of Eze Igwe were deposited in a mortuary for autopsy.
The killing has plunged the Ndufu-Alike community into mourning as residents come to terms with the loss of their traditional leader.
Ebonyi Monarch Killed by Kidnappers in Ikwo LGA
