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By Lizzy Chirkpi
Gunmen have abducted Elder Francis Igw. e, father of former Deputy Governor of Ebonyi State, Kelechi Igwe.
The incident occurred on Sunday morning at Ndufu-Alike in Ikwo Local Government Area, as the elderly man was reportedly on his way to church.
Sources in the community said the attackers, who were riding a motorcycle, intercepted his vehicle along the road. They allegedly forced him out of his car at gunpoint and whisked him away to an undisclosed location.
The Chairman of Ikwo LGA, Sunday Nwankwo, confirmed the abduction, stating that the local council is collaborating with security agencies to secure his release.
The Police Public Relations Officer in the state, SP Joshua Ukandu, also confirmed the incident. He said operatives had been deployed to the area and a rescue operation was underway.
“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.
As of the time of filing this report, there has been no claim of responsibility, and the motive behind the abduction remains unclear.