Ebonyi APC Publicity Secretary Arrested in Connection with Monarch's Kidnap and Killing

 

The viral Facebook post by Mr. Simbad Ogbuatu, the Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ebonyi State—or more precisely, posts featuring him and his image—has gained massive traction amid shocking allegations.

Recent reports from multiple credible sources, including statements confirmed by Ebonyi State Governor Francis Nwifuru, indicate that Simbad Ogbuatu (also referred to as Simbad Victor Ogbuatu or Sinbad Ogbuatu) has been arrested by the police. He is allegedly the mastermind or a key suspect among nine individuals linked to the kidnapping and subsequent killing of HRH Eze Francis Igwe. The victim was the traditional ruler of Ndufu-Alike community in Ikwo Local Government Area and father to the immediate past Deputy Governor of Ebonyi State, Dr. Barr. Kelechi Igwe.

The monarch was reportedly abducted while en route to church on a Sunday morning and killed in captivity, despite ransom demands. Investigations traced involvement through a bank account allegedly used for ransom collection, leading to Ogbuatu's arrest alongside other suspects. Arms, charms, and other items were recovered during the operation.

The Ebonyi State chapter of the APC has expressed shock and dismay over the involvement of their Publicity Secretary, with statements noting difficulty in facing the public due to the scandal. Governor Nwifuru publicly confirmed the arrest, emphasizing that no one is above the law.

Social media posts—particularly on Facebook, Instagram, and X—sharing Ogbuatu's photos (often his official or recent images), his name, position, and details of the case have spread rapidly, fueling the virality. Many describe it as a major embarrassment for the party and highlight broader concerns about crime links.