Police arrest two over murder of Ebonyi monarch

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The abducted father of former Deputy Governor of Ebonyi State, Kelechi Igwe, has been killed by his kidnappers, the police have confirmed.

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The victim, Francis Igwe, was the traditional ruler of Ndufu-Alike in Ikwo Local Government Area of the state before his death.

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According to the police, the monarch was abducted on Sunday, March 1, 2026, while on his way to church.

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Confirming the incident in a statement on Friday, the Police Public Relations Officer in the state, Joshua Ukandu, said operatives launched intensive operations immediately after the abduction was reported.

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Ukandu explained that deploying technical and intelligence assets led to the arrest of two suspects believed to be members of the kidnapping syndicate.

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During interrogation, the suspects reportedly confessed that the monarch had been killed on March 2.

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“They further volunteered to lead operatives to their hideout and assist in recovering the monarch’s remains,” the statement said.

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However, while approaching the hideout, other gang members allegedly opened fire on the police team.

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Ukandu said the operatives responded with superior firepower, overpowering the criminals during the gun battle.

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“In the course of the confrontation, one of the hoodlums was neutralised, while others fled the scene,” he added.

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The police spokesman confirmed that seven additional suspects were later arrested, bringing the total number of suspects in custody to nine.

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He also stated that one locally made pistol was recovered during the operation. Ukandu said the remains of the slain traditional ruler had been recovered and deposited in a morgue for autopsy.

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The suspects are currently in police custody, while efforts continue to arrest other fleeing gang members.

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He added that the suspects would be charged in court after thorough investigations are concluded.

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