Society Editor
By Tolu Adesuwa Igiehon
The family of late businessman Princewill Igbonaju, who was brutally kidnapped and murdered in Ikom, Cross River State, has cried out for justice after the prime suspects in the case were reportedly released despite earlier arrests and investigations.
Princewill’s younger brother, Ernest Igbonaju, took to social media to express his pain and frustration, accusing the authorities of neglect and injustice. According to him, his brother’s life was cut short in cold blood, yet those allegedly responsible are now walking free.
A Brutal Murder That Shook the Community
The tragic incident occurred on September 4, 2023, when Princewill, a respected businessman and devoted youth pastor, was kidnapped by gunmen. His body was later discovered in a grassy field on the outskirts of Ikom — lifeless, with three bullet wounds to the head. His Lexus 350 SUV was stolen and has yet to be recovered.
According to Ernest, the family’s nightmare began when Princewill, who was known for his strong Christian values and active church involvement, failed to attend Sunday service. Concerned church members and relatives launched a search, which ended in tragedy when his remains were found.
Suspected Pastor Among Those Freed
The case took an even darker turn when one of the suspects — reportedly a pastor known to the victim — was arrested in connection with the crime. However, Ernest revealed that the pastor and other suspects have since been released under unclear circumstances, raising serious questions about the integrity of the investigation.
“We are in deep pain. My brother was a peace-loving man who served God and his community. Now, not only have we lost him, but justice has also been denied,” Ernest lamented. “How can those accused of such a brutal act be freed when the evidence is clear?”
Family Demands Justice
The Igbonaju family is now calling on the Inspector-General of Police, the Cross River State Government, and the Department of Public Prosecutions to reopen the case and ensure that those behind Princewill’s death are brought to justice.
Community members and sympathizers have joined in the call for accountability, describing the release of the suspects as “a slap in the face of justice” and “a dangerous precedent that could embolden criminals.”
For Ernest and his grieving family, closure remains distant. “We only want justice,” he said. “My brother’s blood must not be in vain.”
