By CHIDIPETERS OKORIE —
Abuja, NIGERIA — The Onitsha Traditional Council, Ime-Obi, has raised urgent concerns surrounding the circumstances of the tragic death of Honourable Justice Azuka, a distinguished lawmaker representing Onitsha North Constituency 1 in the Anambra State House of Assembly. Recent footage of the alleged abductors of Justice Azuka has fueled suspicions, as the images do not suggest the involvement of large sums of money in their handling, raising questions about accomplices still at large. These concerns have deepened the mystery surrounding his abduction and death, sparking calls for a more thorough investigation.
Justice Azuka, a figure beloved by his community, was abducted on Christmas Eve, December 24, 2024, and his body was discovered on February 6, 2025. The shocking murder has left the Onitsha community in mourning and outraged over the senseless killing of one of its most dedicated public servants.
In a press release signed by Chief Osita Anionwu, Ike Aka Takwuani/Chief of Staff to the Onitsha Traditional Council, the Council condemned the brutal murder, expressing its deep sorrow and demanding justice. “We are still grappling with the fallout of these heinous crimes, and now, we face the unbearable reality that one of our own has been taken from us in such a cold and heartless manner,” Chief Anionwu stated.
This tragedy is not an isolated incident. On January 10, 2025, community leaders gathered at a town hall meeting at Ime-Obi to discuss the growing violence in the region. Justice Azuka’s murder is the second such tragedy in four months, following the deadly attack on Honourable Patrick Agha Mba, the Anambra State Commissioner for Youth Development, his wife, and Kpajie Ernest ABK Offiah, leader of the Onitsha Youth Council, which resulted in Offiah’s tragic death.
Further exacerbating the situation, on February 4, 2025, Honourable Nweze Tony Nwora, Mayor and Chairman of Onitsha North Local Government, was also attacked, highlighting the escalating insecurity across the region. The rising number of violent incidents has spurred the Onitsha community to demand urgent government intervention to ensure the safety of its citizens.
The community’s concern extends to Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s previous commitment to fixing Onitsha as a way to transform Anambra State and the Southeast. Given the increasing insecurity in the state’s economic center, many are questioning the viability of this vision under the current administration.
Justice Azuka’s legacy, however, cannot be overlooked. Throughout his career, he was known for his selfless service, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, when he played a pivotal role in managing and distributing palliative support to those affected. His work as a co-founder and active volunteer of the NGO *Stroke Action, Life After Stroke Centre* demonstrated his deep commitment to community welfare. His death represents a significant loss not only for Onitsha but also for the entire Southeast region.
Compounding the community’s grief is a viral video circulating on social media, showing one of the suspected abductors with Justice Azuka’s body in the background. The video, seemingly intended to glorify security forces, has only intensified public outrage. The community has urged that the focus should not be on sensationalizing the discovery of the body but on addressing the root causes of such violence and ensuring that the perpetrators are held accountable.
**Key Questions and Concerns:**
– **Adequacy and Speed of Response:** Why did it take over 40 days for authorities to locate Justice Azuka, and was the government’s response swift enough?
– **Lack of Communication:** Why did authorities fail to update the family and the public on the status of the investigation?
– **Ransom Payment:** A large sum of money was allegedly paid as ransom, but images of the alleged abductors do not suggest they handled large amounts of cash. This raises questions about potential accomplices still at large.
– **Investigation and Justice:** Will authorities ensure that justice is served, with no bias or delay?
– **Restoring Security:** What actions will the government take to restore peace and security in Onitsha and the greater Anambra State?
– **Addressing Root Causes:** Will the government take meaningful steps to address the growing insecurity and support victims’ families?
The Onitsha community, in the wake of this devastating loss, is calling for collective action to restore peace. Community leaders are urging the public to honor the legacy of Justice Azuka and to demand accountability from authorities.
As the community prepares to say goodbye to a beloved public servant, the Onitsha Traditional Council invites all to join in paying their respects at Justice Azuka’s funeral on Saturday, February 15, 2025. His legacy of service and sacrifice will continue to inspire Onitsha as it works toward a safer and more secure future.
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