Tragic Discovery: Decomposing Body of Hon. Justice Azuka Found After Abduction
posted 7th February 2025
Anambra State, Nigeria — 7 February 2025
The decomposing body of Honourable Justice Azuka, a lawmaker representing Onitsha North 1 Constituency in the Anambra State House of Assembly, was discovered last night by a combined security team near the 2nd Niger Bridge. Hon. Azuka, who was the only son of his parents, was kidnapped on 24 December 2024 along Ugwunabakpa Road in Inland Town, Onitsha.
The grim discovery followed a breakthrough by security operatives from Abuja, who tracked down the kidnappers. According to reports, the culprits had already withdrawn ₦100 million from the deceased’s account before taking his life. In a tragic twist, three other bodies were also recovered from the same location.
This case marks Hon. Azuka as the second sitting lawmaker to be kidnapped and murdered in Anambra State in recent times, following the brutal beheading of another assembly member earlier.
Six suspects have been apprehended in connection with the kidnapping and murder, including a nurse and a native doctor. All the suspects are reportedly of local origin and residents of Asaba, with the exception of one individual residing in Oba, Anambra State. Following their arrest, the suspects led security operatives to the location where Hon. Azuka’s body had been dumped.
This tragic incident underscores the growing insecurity in Anambra State. The fact that a sitting House of Assembly member could be abducted in the heart of Onitsha and not rescued in time highlights the severity of the security challenges facing the region.
Just this week, reports emerged of another violent incident along Awka Road in Onitsha, where armed kidnappers reportedly fired several gunshots, leaving residents in fear.
While commendations are due to the security agencies for apprehending the suspects, the loss of Hon. Azuka is a profound tragedy. This incident calls for urgent and decisive action from all security apparatus within the state.
The Agunechemba, Udo Ga Chi, and all relevant security stakeholders must rise to the occasion to combat this escalating wave of criminality. Anambra State must not become synonymous with violence and insecurity.
This is a sombre moment for the state, a painful reminder of the need for proactive measures to protect its citizens, especially public officials who serve in positions of leadership.
