Ebonyi police arrest six suspects in shocking murder of traditional ruler, recover AK-47, and intensify investigation in Nigeria

The Ebonyi State Police Command, led by Commissioner of Police Hope Urunwa Okafor, has arrested six suspects in connection with the brutal killing of the traditional ruler of Ishinkwo Community, HRH Eze Josephat Nnanna Ikegwu, in Ebonyi State on April 2, 2026.

Also read: Nigeria Police successfully return $23,000 in romance scam case

The arrests, confirmed on Tuesday in Abakaliki by Police Public Relations Officer SP Joshua Ukandu, followed sustained intelligence-led operations carried out by officers of the command as part of ongoing efforts to resolve the case.

The Ebonyi police arrest six suspects marks a significant breakthrough in the investigation into the high-profile murder.

Police identified the suspects as Ucha Johnson, Ogobuchi Igwe, Nkpuma Nwankwo, Edwin Onwoshi, Itumo Joseph and Emmanuel Nwaoba, all of whom are alleged to have played roles in the killing of the monarch at his residence.

Authorities also recovered one AK-47 rifle loaded with eight rounds of live ammunition during the operation, a development described by investigators as a crucial lead in the case.

The killing of HRH Eze Josephat Nnanna Ikegwu had sparked tension and fear within Ishinkwo Community, with residents calling for swift justice following the violent incident that left the traditional institution in mourning.

Commissioner of Police Hope Urunwa Okafor reaffirmed the command’s commitment to ensuring that all those responsible are brought to justice, describing the arrests as a firm step towards accountability.

The police command also assured residents that it remains focused on tackling violent crime across Ebonyi State and strengthening public safety measures in vulnerable communities.

Investigators say the Ebonyi police arrest six suspects is part of a broader effort to dismantle criminal networks linked to the killing, with further inquiries still ongoing.