ONITSHA, Nigeria — The Anambra State Police Command has confirmed that Hon. Justice Azuka, the lawmaker representing Onitsha North 1 at the Anambra State House of Assembly, was murdered by his abductors after paying a ransom of ₦100 million.
Azuka, a member of the Labour Party (LP), was kidnapped on December 24, 2024, while returning home along Ugwunaobankpa Road in Inland Town, Onitsha.
His decomposing body was later discovered near the 2nd Niger Bridge following an extensive security operation.
Police Arrest Six Suspects Linked to the Abduction
Addressing the media on Friday, February 7, 2025, Tochukwu Ikenga, the police command’s spokesperson, revealed that all six suspects involved in the lawmaker’s abduction and murder have been arrested.
According to Ikenga, the kidnappers forced Azuka to transfer ₦100 million from his account before executing him on December 26, 2024.
“They shot him twice in the head,” Ikenga said.
“A nurse residing in Asaba assisted in withdrawing the money, while a native doctor in Asaba prepared charms for them. The gang leader was living with the native doctor inside his shrine.”
Security Agencies Recover Azuka’s Remains
Following the arrest of the suspects, security operatives were led to the location where the lawmaker’s decomposing body had been dumped.
“We have arrested the culprits that kidnapped and killed him,” a security source told The Trent.
“They were arrested very late last night (Wednesday), and they then led the security men to the location where they dumped his corpse.”
The revelation has sparked renewed concerns over worsening security in Anambra State, particularly the rising cases of abductions and violent crimes in urban centres such as Onitsha.
Key Arrests and Findings
Authorities have confirmed the arrest of six suspects, all of whom are under the age of 30.
The police revealed that the individuals were involved in a series of kidnappings and brutal murders, shedding light on the extent of their criminal operations.
One of the key arrests includes a nurse who allegedly facilitated the withdrawal of ransom payments.
Law enforcement officials have taken her into custody and sealed off her pharmacy as part of their ongoing investigation.
Additionally, a native doctor who reportedly supplied the gang with charms to aid their criminal activities has been apprehended.
His role in the operation is currently being examined as police continue their probe into the syndicate’s activities.
In a disturbing revelation, investigators discovered three additional bodies near the remains of one of the victims, Hon. Azuka.
The suspects have since confessed that they routinely murdered their victims after receiving ransom payments.
This grim discovery has intensified efforts to uncover the full scope of the group’s crimes and bring all those involved to justice.
Police Vow to Intensify Crackdown on Criminal Gangs
The Commissioner of Police, Nnaghe Obono Itam, commended security operatives for their swift action in arresting the suspects and assured residents that the police would “continually rid the state of criminals.”
Azuka’s tragic death marks a significant blow to the political and security landscape of Anambra State, especially as he had recently reclaimed his mandate following a legal battle against Hon. Douglas Egbuna of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
Concerns Over Rising Insecurity in Onitsha
Azuka’s abduction and murder highlight the growing insecurity in Anambra State, particularly in Onitsha, where criminal activities have become increasingly brazen and violent.
A security source reported that, just days before Azuka’s body was found, kidnappers “had a field day” along Awka Road in central Onitsha, firing multiple gunshots during an attempted abduction.
Local authorities and community leaders have called for urgent security interventions to prevent further incidents.
As investigations continue, residents remain on edge, hoping that justice will be served and that the state government will implement stronger measures to protect its citizens.
