The kidnapped Anambra State House of Assembly member, Hon. Justice Azuka, has been found dead along the Second Niger Bridge in Onitsha, nearly two months after his abduction.
Discovery of the Decomposing Body
- Azuka, who represented Onitsha North 1 constituency, was kidnapped on December 24, 2023, while traveling to celebrate Christmas with his family.
- His decomposing body was discovered on Wednesday night by a combined security team dispatched from Abuja.
- The operation involved personnel from the Nigeria Police Force, vigilante groups, and other security agencies.
- Anambra State Police spokesperson, Tochukwu Ikenga, confirmed the recovery of the body but did not confirm reports of any arrests linked to the crime.
- Investigations are ongoing, and security operatives have taken control of the area.
Arrests and Investigation
- Some of the suspects linked to the abduction have reportedly been arrested, though official confirmation from the police is awaited.
- The security agencies are working to track down other accomplices and unravel the full circumstances surrounding the murder.
Other Kidnapped Victims Still Missing
- Alongside Azuka, two other individuals abducted on the same day remain missing:
- Ben Ezemma (Big Ben)
- Obiora Agbasimelo (Labour Party’s 2021 governorship candidate in Anambra)
- Their whereabouts remain unknown as security forces intensify rescue efforts.
Background of the Kidnapping
- Hon. Azuka was kidnapped along Ugwunabamkpa Road, Inland Town, Onitsha, while traveling for the Christmas holiday.
- His abduction was part of a growing wave of insecurity and targeted attacks in Anambra State and the broader Southeast region.
Next Steps
- The Anambra State Government and security forces are expected to provide further updates on:
- The investigation’s progress
- The apprehended suspects
- Efforts to rescue the other kidnapped victims
This tragic incident adds to concerns over heightened security threats in Anambra and across Nigeria, especially involving politically exposed persons.
