Ebonyi State Governor, Francis Nwifuru, has initiated moves to introduce the death penalty for kidnapping, following the gruesome murder of the traditional ruler of Ndufu-Alike autonomous community, HRH Eze Francis Igwe, in Ikwo Local Government Area.
The governor disclosed that his administration had submitted an executive bill to the Ebonyi State House of Assembly seeking to make kidnapping a capital offence punishable by death by hanging, without an alternative sentencing option.
Nwifuru made this known during the funeral service of the late monarch at the weekend. The burial ceremony was conducted by the Assemblies of God Church.
Eze Francis Igwe, who was the father of former Ebonyi State Deputy Governor, Eric Igwe, was reportedly abducted on Sunday, March 1, 2026, while travelling to church. Reports indicated that his abductors killed him the following day.
Speaking at the funeral, Governor Nwifuru expressed sadness over the circumstances surrounding the monarch’s death, describing the incident as a disturbing reflection of the growing security and moral challenges facing society.
He also raised concerns about the attitude of some Nigerian youths, questioning their preparedness to assume leadership responsibilities in the future.
According to him, young people must reconsider their actions and develop greater respect for traditional rulers and other community leaders.
The governor said the younger generation should stop treating community leaders as obstacles or people whose positions could be undermined without consequences.
Nwifuru further warned that the killing of Eze Francis Igwe must not become a recurring incident in Ikwo or any other part of Ebonyi State.
He assured the bereaved family that his administration would respect and implement the outcome of the judicial process involving those arrested in connection with the monarch’s murder.
The governor explained that the proposed anti-kidnapping legislation was intended to discourage individuals and criminal groups from engaging in abductions for financial, political or other motives.
“I will not wait to execute the decision of the court over the murderers of this monarch, HRH Eze Francis Igwe. We have sent a bill to the House of Assembly to make kidnapping attract the death sentence by hanging in the state, with no other option. This should serve as a deterrent to those planning a kidnap, whether for political reasons or otherwise.”
Beyond the security concerns, Governor Nwifuru described the late traditional ruler as an accomplished community leader, experienced parliamentarian and outspoken representative of his people.
He recalled Eze Igwe’s contributions to the development of his community, particularly his role in attracting important educational and infrastructural projects, including the popular Folk Technical College, which has produced several prominent Nigerians.
Former Ebonyi State governors Sam Egwu and Martin Elechi, alongside former Senate President Anyim Pius Anyim, also paid tribute to the deceased.
They described the late monarch as a statesman, peacemaker, respected educationist, administrator and committed community leader whose contributions would remain relevant for generations.
The former political leaders encouraged the royal family and the people of Ikwo to draw strength from his achievements and the positive impact he made during his lifetime.
In his tribute, the monarch’s first son described his father as a devoted family man and an exemplary figure whose guidance shaped his understanding of family responsibilities, religion, politics and cultural values.
He admitted that the circumstances surrounding his father’s death remained difficult for the family to comprehend but expressed confidence that his father’s legacy would continue to inspire future generations.
He also appreciated the individuals and groups who stood by the family during the difficult period.
The monarch’s son further disclosed that one of his father’s final wishes was for Governor Nwifuru to secure a second term in office.
Earlier, during the funeral service, the General Superintendent of Assemblies of God, Nigeria, Rev. Dr. Abel Amadi, represented by the church’s General Treasurer, Rev. Dr. Gabriel Michael, delivered a sermon titled “Prepare for Eternity.”
The cleric urged Christians to remain conscious of eternity and live responsibly, stressing that nobody knows when death would come.
The burial brought together political leaders, religious representatives, traditional institutions, family members and other sympathisers to honour the late monarch.
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