THE Governor of Ebonyi State, Francis Nwifuru, has directed security agencies to intensify efforts to uncover the circumstances surrounding the abduction and killing of the traditional ruler of Ndufu-Alike in Ikwo Local Government Area, Eze Francis Igwe.
The directive was contained in a statement issued today by the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Monday Uzor.
Nwifuru also cancelled a scheduled Executive Council meeting and led members of the council to the palace of the late monarch to sympathise with the bereaved family.
According to the governor, the police have already arrested some suspects in connection with the incident, assuring residents that all those responsible for the crime would be identified and prosecuted.
He described the late monarch as a respected elder statesman and courageous leader who served his community with commitment.
The governor also prayed for the peaceful repose of the monarch’s soul and encouraged the family and members of the Ikwo Noyo clan to remain strong during the difficult period.
The eldest son of the late ruler and former deputy governor of Ebonyi State, Kelechi Igwe, expressed appreciation to the governor for the efforts made to rescue his father after the abduction.
He noted that although the monarch did not survive the ordeal, the family remains grateful for the government’s intervention and concern throughout the crisis.
Eze Igwe was reportedly abducted on Sunday while going to church.
According to reports, armed men riding on a motorcycle intercepted his vehicle, forced him out, and took him to an unknown location.
The spokesperson for the Nigeria Police Force in the state, Joshua Ukandu, later confirmed that the monarch was killed a day after the abduction.
He explained that police operatives immediately launched an operation to rescue the victim following the incident.
During interrogation, the arrested suspects reportedly admitted that the monarch was killed on March 2, 2026, and offered to lead security operatives to their hideout to assist in recovering
the victim’s remains.
The incident adds to growing concerns over insecurity across Nigeria, where cases of kidnapping and violent crimes continue to affect several communities.
