Ebonyi abducted traditional ruler Francis Igwe; Governor Nwifuru directs security agencies to ensure his immediate rescue and bring perpetrators to justice
Governor Francis Nwifuru of Ebonyi State has directed security agencies to secure the immediate rescue of Francis Igwe, the traditional ruler of Ndufu-Alike in Ikwo Local Government Area, who was abducted on Sunday while travelling to church.
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Igwe is also the father of the immediate past Deputy Governor of Ebonyi State, Dr Kelechi Igwe.
In a statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Governor Nwifuru described the abduction as “deeply troubling and totally unacceptable” and assured that all available resources would be mobilised to apprehend the perpetrators.
“The state government will deploy all available apparatus to unmask those behind this criminal act and prevent any recurrence,” he said.
The governor urged residents, particularly in Ikwo and neighbouring communities, to remain calm but vigilant and provide information to assist security operations.
“They should provide useful information that could assist security agencies in their ongoing operations,” he added.
Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to protecting lives and property, Nwifuru stressed that Ebonyi would not become a haven for criminals.
“The abductors should release the traditional ruler unconditionally, as the full weight of the law will be brought upon anyone found culpable,” he said.
He expressed confidence that, with public cooperation and dedicated security personnel, Francis Igwe would be safely reunited with his family.
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“Acts of criminality against innocent citizens will not be tolerated,” the governor concluded, expressing solidarity with the royal family and the people of Ikwo.
