Ebonyi ex-Deputy Gov father killed by kidnappers, body recovered by Police

The Ebonyi State Police Command has confirmed the recovery of the body of Ezeogo Francis Igwe, the traditional ruler of Ndufu-Alike in Ikwo Local Government Area and father of a former deputy governor of the state, following his kidnapping last Sunday.

Ezeogo Igwe was abducted while en route to church when masked gunmen intercepted his vehicle and forced him onto a motorcycle. His kidnappers reportedly demanded a ransom of N250 million from his family. Negotiations were ongoing when the monarch was killed in the captors’ hideout.

The State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Joshua Ukandu, stated that police launched an immediate rescue operation, engaging the kidnappers who opened fire on officers. One suspect was neutralised during the confrontation, while others fled. Two suspects initially arrested confessed to the killing and led police to the monarch’s remains. Seven additional suspects were later apprehended, along with a locally made pistol.

“The remains of the late traditional ruler were recovered and deposited at the morgue for autopsy,” Ukandu said. He added that the suspects are currently in custody, and police efforts continue to apprehend the remaining gang members. All will be charged to court after investigation.