The Onitsha Traditional Council has strongly condemned the killing of Justice Azuka, the lawmaker representing Onitsha-North 1 Constituency in the Anambra State House of Assembly.
In a statement issued on Tuesday by its Chief of Staff, Chief Osita Anionwu, the council expressed deep sorrow and disappointment over 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. Forty days later, his lifeless body was discovered at the Second Niger Bridge in the early hours of Thursday, February 6, 2025.
The Anambra State Police Command recently announced the arrest of nine suspects linked to his death.
Town Hall Meeting and Community Outrage
During a town hall meeting held on Monday at Imeobi, Onitsha, community members voiced their outrage over the growing insecurity in the state. The council described Azuka’s abduction and murder as a glaring failure of the government’s promise to protect its citizens.
“The town hall gathering was shocked beyond belief at the circulation of a disturbing video on social media featuring one of the suspected killers with Justice Azuka’s body in the background. The video appears to have been orchestrated by security agents for self-praise,” the statement read.
The council criticized the authorities for sensationalizing the discovery of Azuka’s body instead of focusing on crime prevention and ensuring justice.
A Pattern of Violence and Government Inaction
Azuka’s murder is the second high-profile killing of a young, promising leader from Onitsha in just four months. The council recalled the deadly 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 questioned the government’s response, asking why it took over 40 days to locate Azuka and whether security agencies acted swiftly enough. They also criticized the lack of communication from authorities to both the public and the victim’s family throughout the ordeal.
Participants at the meeting reminded the administration of Soludo’s inaugural speech in March 2022, where he declared that “fixing Onitsha is the key to fixing Anambra State, which in turn is the key to fixing the South-East.” They questioned whether that commitment still held, given the deteriorating security in Onitsha—widely regarded as the economic heartbeat of the state.
Calls for Justice and Transparency
The council emphasized Azuka’s dedication to public service, highlighting his role in the Onitsha Community COVID Response Team, his work in rehabilitating stroke survivors, and his efforts as a legislator for his constituents.
They also raised concerns about an alleged ransom payment, questioning whether the transaction could be traced through the banking system.
“The images of the alleged abductors do not reflect individuals handling large sums of money, raising the question of possible other accomplices,” the statement noted.
The council called for a transparent investigation and urged authorities to uncover the full truth behind Azuka’s murder “without fear or favor.”
Seeking Solutions and Honoring Azuka’s Legacy
The Onitsha community challenged the government to take concrete steps in addressing the root causes of insecurity and supporting the families of victims.
“How can the community work together to restore peace and security to Onitsha and Anambra State?” the council asked. “Will the state government implement measures to prevent such tragedies and provide emotional and material support to affected families?”
The council also urged residents to unite in honoring Azuka at his funeral on Saturday, February 15, stating, “May his legacy inspire us to work towards a safer and more secure Onitsha.”
