Summary: Nine suspects including APC’s publicity secretary arrested over the abduction and murder of Ebonyi traditional ruler, Francis Igwe. Full details of the shocking incident that has left the state in disbelief.
The Nigeria Police Force has arrested nine suspects in connection with the kidnapping and brutal murder of His Royal Highness, Francis Igwe, the traditional ruler of Ndufu-Alike community in Ikwo Local Government Area of Ebonyi State.
In a development that has sent shockwaves across the state, one of the arrested suspects is Simbad Victor, the publicity secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ebonyi State.
The Abduction
The late monarch, who is the father of Ebonyi State’s Deputy Governor, Kelechi Igwe, was kidnapped on Sunday, March 1, 2026, while traveling to church for worship. The abduction of the respected traditional ruler immediately sparked concern throughout the community and beyond.
According to Joshua Ukandu, spokesperson for the Ebonyi State Police Command, security operatives swung into action immediately after receiving the report of the abduction.
How Police Tracked Down the Suspects
Mr. Ukandu explained that through the deployment of technical intelligence and strategic operations, police arrested two initial suspects believed to be members of the kidnapping syndicate.
During interrogation, the suspects made a shocking confession: they had already killed the traditional ruler on March 2, just one day after his abduction.
“They further volunteered to lead operatives to their hideout and assist in recovering the monarch’s remains,” the police statement revealed.
Gun Battle at Hideout
However, as the police team approached the criminals’ hideout, other gang members opened fire on the officers. The operatives responded with superior firepower, engaging the kidnappers in a fierce gun battle.
“In the course of the confrontation, one of the hoodlums was neutralised, while others fled the scene,” Ukandu stated.
Seven additional suspects were subsequently arrested, bringing the total number of suspects in custody to nine. Police also recovered one locally made pistol during the operation.
The remains of the slain traditional ruler have been recovered and deposited in a morgue for autopsy, while investigations continue.
APC Expresses Shock Over Member’s Involvement
The revelation that the party’s publicity secretary was involved in this heinous crime has left the All Progressives Congress in Ebonyi State utterly devastated.
Stanley Okoro-Emegha, the APC Chairman in Ebonyi State, led a party delegation on a condolence visit to the Igwe family in Ndufu-Alike on Saturday. Speaking during the visit, he admitted he could barely face the public since learning of his party executive’s alleged involvement.
“The report is unheard of, as I do not have the confidence to face the public since the past two days,” Mr. Okoro-Emegha confessed.
“Members of the party cannot believe in their entire lives that the party can be associated with such act. We operate as a family to the extent that someone can vouch for another despite our normal party activities.”
Party Pledges Support for Justice
The APC chairman emphasized that the party would fully support the state government’s efforts to ensure justice for the Igwe family.
“The governor, as the father of the state and leader of the party, cannot tolerate such evil act, no matter who is involved,” he declared.
“We condemn whatever is condemnable, as whatever is evil is evil. All those who heard of the act and did not disclose it among other levels of involvement must receive equal measure of what they deserve.”
Mr. Okoro-Emegha urged the Deputy Governor to remain strong during this difficult period, noting that his strength would inspire consolation in those around him.
“The worst thing one can do against God is to take a life that you do not know how it was created,” he added.
Community Reacts to Tragic Loss
Johnson Aloh, the Palace Secretary of Ndufu-Alike community, thanked the APC for the condolence visit, stating that both the palace and the entire community were completely devastated by the incident.
He expressed regret that such a terrible act could occur in Ebonyi State, which has been regarded as a model of peace and security among Nigerian states.
“Truly, it was earth-shaking when we heard that the name of our dear party was soiled by the actions of an individual,” Mr. Aloh said.
“We, however, have the discerning spirit to differentiate the act of an individual from that of the party, as we know that the party can never indulge in such an act.”
Next Steps
Police have confirmed that all nine suspects remain in custody while investigations continue. Authorities are also pursuing other fleeing gang members.
The suspects will be charged in court once investigations are concluded, according to the police spokesperson.
This tragic incident has once again highlighted the persistent security challenges facing Nigeria, even as states like Ebonyi have made significant strides in improving safety and peace.
The brutal murder of a traditional ruler – a revered figure in Igbo culture and society – represents a shocking assault not just on an individual or family, but on the entire community’s values and sense of security.
As Nigerians await the full course of justice in this matter, many are asking difficult questions about how such a heinous crime could involve someone holding a leadership position in a major political party.
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