By Okafor Joseph

The Onitsha Traditional Council has strongly condemned the brutal killing of Justice Azuka, the lawmaker representing Onitsha-North 1 Constituency in the Anambra State House of Assembly, describing it as a damning reflection of the worsening security situation under Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s administration.

Azuka was abducted on December 24, 2024, along Ugwunaobankpa Road in Inland Town, Onitsha, while returning home for Christmas. His remains were discovered 40 days later, on February 6, 2025, near the Second Niger Bridge. The Anambra State Police Command has since confirmed the arrest of nine suspects in connection with the gruesome murder.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, Chief Osita Anionwu, Chief of Staff of the Onitsha Traditional Council (Imeobi), expressed the council’s outrage, calling the incident a direct result of the government’s failure to protect its citizens. The statement, released after a town hall meeting at Imeobi, highlighted growing fears over escalating violence and lawlessness in Onitsha.

“The town hall gathering was horrified by a disturbing video circulating on social media, allegedly showing one of the suspected killers with the body of Justice Azuka in the background—an apparent attempt by security agents to claim credit for an investigation that should have been prevented in the first place.

“Rather than sensationalizing the discovery of his body, authorities should be focusing on proactive security measures to prevent such horrific crimes and ensure justice is swiftly served,” the statement read.

The council also noted that Azuka’s murder is the second high-profile assassination of an Onitsha leader within four months. They referenced the attack on Anambra State Commissioner for Youth Development, Patrick Mba, and his wife, which resulted in the death of Onitsha Youth Council leader, Kpajie Offiah.

Community members raised concerns about the slow response from security agencies, questioning why it took 40 days to locate Azuka’s remains. They also criticized the lack of communication with both the public and the grieving family throughout the ordeal.

During the meeting, participants recalled Governor Soludo’s inaugural address in March 2022, where he declared, “Fixing Onitsha is the key to fixing Anambra State, which in turn is the key to fixing the South-East.” Given the deteriorating security situation, they now wonder whether that promise still holds.

Demand for Accountability

The Onitsha Traditional Council paid tribute to Justice Azuka’s contributions to the community, particularly his leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic as a member of the Onitsha Community COVID Response Team, his advocacy for stroke survivors, and his unwavering commitment to his constituents.

Calling for an impartial investigation, the council raised concerns over an alleged ransom payment linked to his abduction.

“An electronic transfer of a large sum should be traceable within the banking system.

“Additionally, the images of the alleged abductors do not suggest they had access to such substantial funds, raising the possibility of other hidden accomplices,” the statement noted.

The council urged authorities to uncover the full truth behind the murder and bring all those involved to justice “without fear or favor.” They also called on the state government to address the root causes of insecurity and establish mechanisms to support victims’ families.

As Onitsha prepares to lay Justice Azuka to rest on Saturday, February 15, the council encouraged residents to honor his memory, stating, “May his legacy inspire us to work toward a safer and more secure Onitsha.”