Kidnappers Kill Ebonyi Monarch, Police Arrest Nine Suspects
Edino Chubiyo Cornelius 
ABAKALIKI, Nigeria – The Ebonyi State Police Command has confirmed that Francis Igwe, a traditional ruler and father of former Ebonyi State Deputy Governor Kelechi Igwe, has been killed by kidnappers after his abduction.
The monarch, who ruled Ndufu-Alike community in Ikwo Local Government Area, was reportedly kidnapped on Sunday, March 1, 2026, while travelling to church.
Police spokesperson Joshua Ukandu confirmed the development in a statement on Friday.
According to him, police operatives immediately launched intensive operations after receiving the report of the abduction.
Ukandu said the deployment of technical surveillance and intelligence assets led to the arrest of two suspects linked to the kidnapping syndicate.
During interrogation, the suspects allegedly confessed that the monarch had been killed on March 2.
“They further volunteered to lead operatives to their hideout and assist in recovering the monarch’s remains,” the police statement said.
However, the police team reportedly came under attack from other gang members while approaching the location.
“In the course of the confrontation, one of the hoodlums was neutralised while others fled,” Ukandu said.
He added that seven additional suspects were later arrested, bringing the total number of suspects in custody to nine.
A locally fabricated pistol was recovered during the operation.
The remains of the slain monarch have since been deposited in a morgue for autopsy, while investigations continue.
Ukandu said efforts are ongoing to apprehend other fleeing suspects who will face prosecution upon arrest.
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