The Ebonyi State Government has announced the arrest of Mr. Simbad Ogbuatu, the Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state, over his alleged role in the abduction and murder of Chief Francis Igwe, the traditional ruler of Ndufu-Alike community in Ikwo Local Government Area.
Governor Francis Nwifuru revealed the development on Saturday during a condolence visit to the late monarch’s family.
Chief Igwe, who is the father of ex-Deputy Governor Kelechi Igwe, was reportedly abducted by suspected criminals and died in their custody after sustaining injuries from physical assault.
The governor said the investigation linked Ogbuatu to a bank account used in ransom negotiations.
He explained that he first became aware of the connection during a political party meeting.
“During the meeting, I was quietly informed that the money paid was traced to the APC publicity secretary.
“I was skeptical at first, but I was asked if the arrest should proceed. I gave my approval,” Nwifuru said.
According to the governor, Ogbuatu admitted during questioning that he provided his bank account details to one of the suspects, reportedly his personal assistant, but claimed he did not know it would be used for ransom collection.
He initially told investigators that the account was intended for proceeds from a land sale of approximately N200 million.
Governor Nwifuru added that security operatives used the suspect’s phone to communicate with the alleged kidnappers.
This led to the arrest of several gang members who arrived at a location expecting to collect their share of the ransom.
One suspect reportedly accused Ogbuatu of withholding the ransom from the group.
“The police instructed him on how to handle the call to ensure the suspects could be apprehended.
“This operation led to the successful arrest of the gang members,” the governor said.
He confirmed that security agencies are continuing their probe into the killing of Chief Igwe and the involvement of anyone connected to the crime.
