A wave of shock has swept through Ebonyi State following the abduction of His Royal Highness, Eze Francis Igwe, the father of former Deputy Governor Kelechi Igwe, by gunmen on Sunday, March 1, 2026. The incident occurred while the traditional ruler was on his way to church in Ndufu-Alike community, Ikwo Local Government Area.
According to eyewitnesses, armed men on a motorcycle intercepted Igwe’s vehicle, forced him out, and whisked him away to an unknown destination. The Chairman of Ikwo Local Government Area, Sunday Nwankwo, confirmed the incident, stating that the council is working with security agencies to gather information and facilitate his rescue.
However, unconfirm report has that Mr. Simbad Victor, the APC Publicity Secretary, are being fingered in connection with the crime. However, the police have made progress in the case, with reports indicating the entire gang involved has been arrested.
Ebonyi State Governor, Francis Nwifuru, has condemned the abduction, describing it as “deeply troubling and totally unacceptable”. He has directed all security agencies to work together to track down the perpetrators and ensure Igwe’s safe rescue.
The police have deployed operatives to the area, and investigations are ongoing. The motive behind the kidnapping is still unclear.
