The Nigeria Police Force has intensified investigations into the killing of the traditional ruler of Ochia Autonomous Community in Ohaji/Egbema Local Government Area of Imo State, Paulinus Ezekureme, and five members of his cabinet.
The monarch and his entourage were reportedly attacked on April 10, 2026, while travelling to Owerri, the Imo State capital. Their vehicle was set ablaze by armed assailants, leaving all six occupants dead.
The incident occurred barely weeks after the monarch returned to Nigeria following nearly five years abroad, where he had resumed his traditional duties in the community.
According to police sources, investigations commenced after the monarch’s younger brother reported the incident, prompting homicide detectives attached to the Force Intelligence Department’s Special Tactical Squad to launch a comprehensive investigation.
Detectives are said to be examining the circumstances surrounding the attack, including whether information about the monarch’s movements was leaked before the ambush. Investigators have interviewed family members, community leaders, associates and other residents while reconstructing the monarch’s final movements.
Police have also arrested several persons described as individuals of investigative interest as part of ongoing efforts to unravel the circumstances surrounding the killings. Authorities say the arrests are intended to assist investigations, while inquiries continue into possible communication and financial links among suspects.
As part of the investigation, security operatives are conducting forensic examinations of recovered mobile phones, call records, electronic communications, financial transactions and other digital evidence. Post-mortem examinations have also been recommended to establish the exact cause of death and preserve evidence for possible prosecution.
The Force Intelligence Department’s Special Tactical Squad is continuing efforts to identify and apprehend other persons of investigative interest while expanding intelligence gathering.
The Nigeria Police Force has emphasised that investigations remain ongoing and that all individuals mentioned in connection with the case are presumed innocent until proven guilty by a court of competent jurisdiction.
