Gunmen suspected to be kidnappers have killed a traditional ruler in Ebonyi State, identified as Francis Igwe, who was also the father of former Deputy Governor, Kelechi Igwe.
The monarch, who ruled over Ndufu-Alike in Ikwo Local Government Area, was reportedly abducted by gunmen on Sunday, March 1, 2026, while on his way to church.
Confirming the incident, the spokesman of the Nigeria Police Force, Joshua Ukandu, said security operatives launched an intensive manhunt for the kidnappers immediately the abduction was reported.
According to the police, their investigation led to the arrest of two suspects believed to be members of the kidnapping syndicate. During interrogation, the suspects reportedly confessed that the monarch had already been killed a day after he was abducted.
Ukandu explained that the suspects later offered to take security operatives to their hideout and help recover the monarch’s remains.
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However, while approaching the location, other members of the gang allegedly opened fire on the police team, leading to a gun battle.
The operatives responded with superior firepower, overpowering the criminals.
During the confrontation, one of the hoodlums was neutralised, while others fled the scene.
The police spokesman added that seven additional suspects were later arrested, bringing the total number of suspects currently in custody to nine.
Security operatives also recovered a locally made pistol believed to have been used by the gang.
The remains of the slain monarch have since been recovered and deposited in a morgue for autopsy, while investigations continue.
Police authorities said efforts are ongoing to track down other fleeing members of the kidnapping syndicate, noting that the suspects in custody would be charged to court after the completion of investigations.
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