APC Publicity Secretary Arrested Over Ebonyi Monarch’s Killing, Says Governor Nwifuru

Ebonyi State APC Publicity Secretary Simbad Ogbuatu was arrested over involvement in the kidnapping and death of Ndufu-Alike monarch Chief Francis Igwe.

By Precious E.

The Ebonyi State Government has confirmed the arrest of Mr. Simbad Ogbuatu, the Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state, in connection with the kidnapping and death of Chief Francis Igwe, the traditional ruler of Ndufu-Alike in Ikwo Local Government Area.

Governor Francis Nwifuru disclosed the development on Saturday during a visit to the family of the late monarch to offer condolences. Chief Igwe, father of former Deputy Governor Kelechi Igwe, was reportedly abducted and died in captivity after sustaining injuries from physical assault.

Investigation Links APC Official to Ransom Transactions

Governor Nwifuru explained that Ogbuatu became a person of interest after security agencies traced a bank account allegedly used in the ransom process to him. The connection was first brought to the governor’s attention during a party meeting.

“At the meeting, someone mentioned that the money paid was linked to our publicity secretary. I asked for verification and authorized further investigation,” Nwifuru said. He added that although he initially questioned the claim, he instructed security operatives to summon Ogbuatu for questioning.

According to the governor, Ogbuatu admitted providing his bank account details after being approached by a suspect, reportedly his personal assistant. He claimed he was unaware the account would be used for ransom payment and initially told investigators the funds were from a land sale.

Security operatives reportedly used Ogbuatu’s phone to communicate with members of the suspected gang. During one of these exchanges, the suspects accused him of keeping ransom money for himself. Following instructions from the police, Ogbuatu helped lure the gang to a location where they were arrested.

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Governor Nwifuru said ongoing investigations are examining the full circumstances of the monarch’s death and the role of anyone connected to the crime.

The arrest of a prominent political figure in Ebonyi over a high-profile kidnapping case highlights growing concerns about security and political accountability in the state.