Police and local sources have confirmed the kidnapping of father of the immediate past Deputy Governor of Ebonyi State, Eze Francis Igwe by suspected gunmen, Sunday morning.
The victim was the traditional ruler of Ndufu-Alike, in Ikwo Local Government Area, which is the host community of the Alex Ekwueme Federal University in Ebonyi State.
Local sources told AIT.live that the incident occurred along Nwakpu area of the community, as the royal father was going for a church service.
Elder Igwe was said to be driving in his SUV vehicle when he was double crossed by heavily armed young men on a motorcycle, forcing him out of his car, and whisking him away on their bike to an unknown destination.
The Ebonyi State Police spokesperson, SP Joshua Ukandu, confirmed the kidnap incident in a telephone chat with AIT.livr, stating that operatives of the Command have been deployed to the area for a rescue operation.
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“Yes, we are aware of the kidnapping incident this morning. Our men have been deployed to the area to ensure he’s rescued unhurt,” Ukandu said
Meanwhile, the Ebonyi State Governor, Francis Nwifuru has condemned the reported kidnapping of the traditional ruler.
Governor Nwifuru described the development as troubling and unacceptable, noting that acts of criminality against innocent citizens especially revered community leaders, will not be tolerated in Ebonyi State.
The Governor has equally expressed solidarity with the family of the revered royal father, assuring that the Ebonyi State Government has activated all security and intelligence mechanisms to ensure the safe and prompt rescue of the monarch.
(Editor: Terverr Tyav)
