There was tension after gunmen kidnapped the father of a former Deputy Governor of Ebonyi State while he was going to church.
The victim, Francis Igwe, was kidnapped on Sunday morning, March 1, 2026, while driving to church. The incident happened in the Ndufu-Alike community.
According to reports, the gunmen came on a motorcycle, stopped Igwe’s vehicle, forced him out, and took him to an unknown location. Sources also say that the attackers carried out the operation along the road.
The chairman of Ikwo Local Government Area, Sunday Nwankwo, said that "the local authorities are working together with security agencies to gather information and ensure the rescue of the kidnapped man."
The State Police spokesperson, Joshua Ukandu, also confirmed the incident. He said police officers have been deployed to the area and are currently tracking the kidnappers.
Ukandu said the goal is to ensure the safe rescue of the elderly man. He added, “Yes, we are aware of the kidnapping incident this morning. Our men have been deployed to the area to make sure he is rescued without harm.”
Meanwhile, the Ebonyi State Governor, Francis Nwifuru, has condemned the reported kidnapping of the traditional ruler.
The governor described the incident as disturbing and unacceptable. He said criminal acts against innocent people, especially respected community leaders, will not be tolerated in Ebonyi State.
Governor Nwifuru also expressed support for the family of the respected monarch and assured them that the Ebonyi State Government has activated all security and intelligence efforts to ensure the monarch is rescued quickly and safely.
