JONAPWD Condemns Killing of Ex-Deputy Governor’s Father, Demands Justice

The Joint National Association of Persons With Disabilities (JONAPWD), Ebonyi State Chapter, has condemned the killing of the traditional ruler of Alike Ikwo Autonomous Community in Ikwo Local Government Area, HRH Eze Francis Igwe, describing the act as barbaric and unacceptable.

The association, led by its State Chairman, Comrade Nwovu Friday Christian, expressed outrage over the murder of the monarch, who was also the father of the former Deputy Governor of Ebonyi State, Barr. Kelechi Igwe. In a statement made available to journalists in Abakaliki, the group said it received the news of the monarch’s death with deep sadness, noting that the incident has created a huge vacuum not only in Alike Ikwo community but across Ebonyi State.

According to the association, the late monarch was widely respected for his wisdom, leadership and commitment to peace and development in his community. JONAPWD called on security agencies to intensify efforts to ensure that those responsible for the abduction and subsequent killing of the traditional ruler are apprehended and brought to justice.

The group further noted that the increasing cases of kidnapping and killings in society require urgent and decisive action from security operatives to protect the lives and property of citizens. It also commiserated with the former Deputy Governor, Barr. Kelechi Igwe, the Alike Ikwo community and the entire people of Ebonyi State over the painful loss. The association, however, appreciated the efforts of the Ebonyi State Governor, Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru, in maintaining peace across the state, while urging that those behind the crime be brought to book to serve as a deterrent to others. JONAPWD also prayed for the peaceful repose of the soul of the late monarch and urged his family and subjects to remain strong during the difficult period.