APC Official Arrested Over Alleged Role in Traditional Ruler's Kidnap and Murder
The Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress in Ebonyi State, Mr Simbad Ogbuatu, has been arrested following allegations of his involvement in the kidnapping and subsequent death of a prominent traditional ruler. The case has sent shockwaves through the state's political and security circles, highlighting the grave nature of the accusations against a party official.
Viral Facebook Post Raises Eyebrows
Ogbuatu's arrest came after a Facebook post he made went viral, drawing intense scrutiny from authorities and the public alike. In the post dated March 3, 2026, just two days after the abduction of Chief Francis Igwe, the traditional ruler of Ndufu-Alike community in Ikwo Local Government Area, Ogbuatu wrote: "Very soon, e go sweet for us like say we bribe God."
This cryptic message was reportedly published a day after a substantial ransom demand was made to the victim's family, adding to the suspicion surrounding Ogbuatu's activities. The post, along with a series of other so-called motivational quotes he shared, became a focal point in the investigation into the monarch's tragic fate.
The Tragic Abduction and Death of Chief Francis Igwe
Chief Francis Igwe, a respected traditional ruler and father to former Deputy Governor Kelechi Igwe, was abducted on Sunday, March 1, 2026, by suspected kidnappers. The monarch later died while in captivity, reportedly from injuries sustained during physical assault by his captors. His death has plunged the community into mourning and sparked outrage across Ebonyi State.
Governor Nwifuru Confirms Arrest and Details Investigation
Governor Francis Nwifuru confirmed Ogbuatu's arrest during a condolence visit to the late monarch's family on Saturday. The governor disclosed that the investigation began when security agencies traced a bank account allegedly used in ransom negotiations to the APC official.
"During our party meeting, somebody whispered to me that the money paid was linked to the publicity secretary of the APC. I asked, 'What?' They said they were still investigating it, but wanted to know if they should go ahead with his arrest. I approved," Governor Nwifuru stated, revealing how the information first came to his attention.
Bank Account Details and Interrogation Revelations
According to the governor, Ogbuatu allegedly admitted during interrogation that he provided his bank account details after being contacted by one of the suspects, who was reportedly his personal assistant. The APC spokesman claimed he was unaware the account would be used for ransom payment, initially telling investigators the expected funds were related to proceeds from a land transaction worth approximately N200 million.
"He said one of his boys, his personal assistant, called him to give an account, and he gave the account the assistant asked him to give. Later, he said the account was for money from a land sale of about N200 million," Governor Nwifuru explained, detailing Ogbuatu's statements to authorities.
Sting Operation Leads to Gang Arrests
Security operatives utilized Ogbuatu's phone to communicate with members of the alleged kidnap gang in an effort to track them down. During one conversation, a suspect called and accused Ogbuatu of collecting ransom money without sharing it with the group. Police instructed Ogbuatu on what to say to lure the suspects to a meeting point.
Security personnel subsequently laid an ambush and arrested members of the gang who arrived at the location expecting to collect their share of the ransom. The suspects later told investigators they contacted Ogbuatu through one of their members who worked as his personal assistant.
Ongoing Investigations and Security Measures
Governor Nwifuru emphasized that security agencies are continuing their investigations into the circumstances surrounding the killing of the monarch and the alleged involvement of all individuals linked to the incident. The case remains active as authorities work to uncover the full extent of the conspiracy and bring all perpetrators to justice.
The arrest of a political party official in connection with such a serious crime has raised questions about security protocols and the integrity of public office holders in Ebonyi State. The state government has assured residents that no stone will be left unturned in ensuring justice for the late traditional ruler and his grieving family.
