Anambra State has been thrown into mourning following the gruesome murder of Hon. Justice Azuka, a member of the Anambra State House of Assembly, whose decomposing body was discovered at the 2nd Niger Bridge by a combined security team.
Gunmen abducted Hon. Azuka, the representative of Onitsha North 1 Constituency in the Anambra State House of Assembly, on Tuesday, December 24, 2024. The lawmaker was reportedly kidnapped at gunpoint while returning home along Ugwunaobankpa Road in Inland Town, Onitsha, in a swift operation that lasted less than five minutes.
Hon. Azuka, a prominent chieftain of the Labour Party (LP), had recently regained his mandate after a court ruling nullified the victory of Hon. Douglas Egbuna of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), who was previously declared the winner of the 2023 election.
Authorities have confirmed the arrest of suspects linked to the abduction and killing of the lawmaker. According to a security source, “We have arrested the culprits who kidnapped and killed him. They were apprehended late last night (Wednesday) and later led security operatives to where they dumped his corpse.”
The tragic killing of the sitting lawmaker highlights the escalating security crisis in Anambra State. Just two nights prior, gunmen staged a violent attack along Awka Road in central Onitsha, firing multiple gunshots during an attempted abduction.
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The news of Azuka’s murder has sparked widespread grief. “It is sad and tragic. What a huge loss. May his gentle soul rest in perfect peace. Our condolences go out to his family, the traditional ruler of Onitsha, Obi of Onitsha, Dr. Alfred Achebe, and the entire people of Onitsha North Constituency 1,” a source expressed.
Meanwhile the Anambra State Police Command, is yet to make an official statement. The abduction and murder of a serving lawmaker raise fresh concerns about safety in Anambra State. As security forces work to apprehend criminal elements, residents are left fearing for their safety amid the rising wave of kidnappings and violent attacks in the region.
