Anambra: Decomposing Body of Kidnapped Lawmaker Found
Posted byBy LegalLinkz
February 7, 2025
3 Min Read
A combined security team has discovered the decomposing body of Hon. Justice Azuka, a member of the Anambra State House of Assembly, at the 2nd Niger Bridge.
Azuka, who represented Onitsha North Constituency 1, was abducted at gunpoint on December 24, 2024, while returning home on Ugwunaobankpa Road in Inland Town, Onitsha. His kidnapping, which lasted less than five minutes, sent shockwaves across the state, raising concerns over escalating security challenges.
The lawmaker, a Labour Party (LP) chieftain, had secured his mandate through a court ruling after unseating Hon. Douglas Egbuna of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), who was previously declared the winner of the 2023 election.
According to security sources, his abductors have been apprehended.
“We have arrested the culprits that kidnapped and killed him. They were arrested late last night (Wednesday), and they led security operatives to the location where they dumped his body,” a source told SaharaReporters.
Rising Security Concerns in Anambra
Azuka’s murder underscores the deteriorating security situation in Anambra State, where high-profile kidnappings and violent crimes have become more frequent.
“Two nights ago, on Tuesday, kidnappers had a field day along Awka Road, Onitsha, firing several gunshots during an attempted abduction,” another security source revealed.
Attempts to contact SP Tochukwu Ikenga, the Anambra State Police Command spokesperson, for an official statement were unsuccessful, as he had yet to respond to messages sent by reporters.
Condolences and Tributes
Azuka’s death has been met with widespread grief.
“It is sad and tragic. What a huge loss. May his gentle soul rest in peace. Our condolences to his family, the Obi of Onitsha, Dr. Alfred Achebe, and the entire people of Onitsha North Constituency 1,” the source added.
The tragic killing of Justice Azuka adds to the growing list of politically related abductions and killings in Nigeria, fueling calls for urgent security reforms in Anambra State and beyond.
