The traditional ruler of Atta kingdom in the Njaba local government area of Imo state, Edwin Azike, that was abducted by gunmen has been found dead.
Azike was abducted on Thursday in his palace.
The corpse of the monarch was dumped at the market square in the community, on Friday morning.
The chairman of Traditional Rulers Council/ Community Policing in the state, Eze Emma Okeke, confirmed the incident.
He said the monarchs in the state were saddened by the killing of their colleague.
He said four persons were shot dead after the monarch was kidnapped.
Spokesperson of Imo Police Command, Mike Abattam, said the police were yet to be informed.