BREAKING: Decomposing body of kidnapped Anambra lawmaker Justice Azuka found at 2nd Niger Bridge

The decomposing body of Hon. Justice Azuka, a member of the Anambra State House of Assembly representing Onitsha North Constituency 1, has been discovered by a combined security team at the 2nd Niger Bridge.

Azuka was abducted at gunpoint on Tuesday, December 24, 2024, while returning home along Ugwunaobankpa Road in Inland Town, Onitsha. The operation, described as swift and lasting less than five minutes, occurred in the heart of the bustling city.

The lawmaker, a chieftain of the Labour Party (LP), recently reclaimed his mandate after a court ruling overturned the victory of Hon. Douglas Egbuna of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), who had been declared the initial winner of the 2023 election.

A security source confirmed that the suspects responsible for Azuka’s abduction and murder were apprehended late Wednesday night. “They were arrested and later led the security team to the location where they dumped his corpse,” the source said.

“It is a sad and tragic loss. May his gentle soul rest in perfect peace. Our heartfelt condolences go out to his family, the traditional ruler of Onitsha, Obi of Onitsha, Dr. Alfred Achebe, and the entire people of Onitsha North Constituency 1.”

This incident underscores the worsening security challenges in Anambra State. Just two nights ago, kidnappers caused panic along Awka Road in Onitsha, firing multiple gunshots during an attempted abduction.

Efforts to reach SP Tochukwu Ikenga, the spokesperson for the Anambra State Police Command, were unsuccessful. While he requested that questions be sent via message, no response had been received as of the time of filing this report.

The tragic loss of Hon. Justice Azuka highlights the urgent need for intensified security measures in the region.