Kidnapped Father of Ex-Ebonyi Deputy Governor Dies in Captivity

The Nigeria Police Force in Ebonyi State has confirmed the death of Chief Francis Igwe, father of former Deputy Governor Kelechi Igwe, who was abducted by gunmen.

The command’s spokesperson, Joshua Ukandu, disclosed this in a statement issued to journalists in Abakaliki on Friday.

Ukandu said the victim died on March 2 while in the custody of his abductors before a police rescue team could reach the location.

The News Agency of Nigeria reports that Chief Igwe was kidnapped on March 1 while heading to church in the Ndufu‑Alike community of Ikwo Local Government Area.

According to the police, operatives of the command immediately launched intensive operations to rescue the victim. Through the use of intelligence and technical assets, two suspects linked to the kidnapping syndicate were initially arrested.

During interrogation, the suspects reportedly confessed that the victim had already been killed and later volunteered to guide police operatives to their hideout to recover the body.

However, as security operatives approached the location, other members of the gang reportedly opened fire on them. The police responded with superior firepower, leading to a confrontation during which one of the suspects was neutralised while others fled.

The police said seven additional suspects were later arrested, bringing the total number of suspects in custody to nine, while a locally made pistol was recovered from them.

Ukandu added that the remains of the victim were recovered and deposited in a morgue for autopsy.

He said the suspects are currently in custody, while efforts are ongoing to track down other fleeing members of the gang. The arrested suspects will be charged to court after investigations are concluded.