Ndufu Alike (Ebonyi, Nigeria): The All Progressives Congress (APC) has expressed shock at its member’s involvement in the kidnap and eventual death of HRH Francis Igwe, Father of Ebonyi’s former Deputy Governor, Dr Kelechi Igwe.
Confirmed reports indicate that the party’s publicity secretary in the state was involved in the act.
The APC Chairman in Ebonyi, Chief Stanley Okoro-Emegha, expressed shock on Saturday when he led a party delegation on a condolence visit to Igwe’s family in Ndufu-Alike, Ikwo Local Government Area (LGA).
Okoro-Emegha said the party executive’s complicity was so shocking that he could not face the public.
The report is unheard of, as I have lacked the confidence to face the public for the past two days.
Party members cannot believe the party is associated with such an act.
“We are like a family and trust each other, despite normal party activities,” he said.
The party chairman emphasised that the party fully supports the state government’s efforts to secure justice for the Igwe family.
“The governor, as the father of the state and leader of the party, cannot tolerate such an evil act, no matter who is involved.
As a party, we condemn whatever is condemnable; whatever is evil is evil.
“All those who heard of the act and did not disclose it among other levels of involvement must receive equal measure of what they deserve,” he said.
He urged the deputy governor to be consoled, as being strong would inspire others to do the same.
I urge the family and community to support the deputy governor during this time.
“Taking a life is the worst offence against God,” he said. The Palace Secretary of the community, Dr Johnson Aloh, thanked the party for the visit, noting that the palace and the community were totally devastated by the incident.
Aloh regretted that such an act was perpetuated in Ebonyi when the state had become a model among states and a haven of peace. “It was earth-shaking when we heard our party’s name was soiled by one individual’s actions.
“We, however, have the discerning spirit to differentiate the act of an individual from that of the party, as we know that the party can never indulge in such an act.
“We thank you for spearheading this fight and urge you to help in ensuring that bad eggs who want to tarnish the state’s image are checked,” he said.
