The Onitsha Traditional Council has condemned the killing of the member representing Onitsha-North 1 Constituency in the Anambra State House of Assembly, Justice Azuka.

The council also expresses sorrow and disappointment over the state of security under Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s administration.

Azuka was kidnapped on December 24, 2024, along Ugwunaobankpa Road in Inland Town, Onitsha, while returning home for Christmas.

His lifeless body was discovered by security operatives at the Second Niger Bridge in the early hours of Thursday, February 6, 2025—40 days after his abduction.
In a statement issued on Tuesday and signed by the Chief of Staff of the Onitsha Traditional Council (Imeobi), Chief Osita Anionwu, the council described the abduction and murder of Azuka as evidence of the state government’s failure to fulfill its promise of ensuring the security of residents.

The statement was released following a town hall meeting held on Monday at Imeobi, Onitsha, where members of the community voiced their concerns over the growing insecurity in the state.

“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 the body of Justice Azuka in the background, which appears to be orchestrated by security agents for self-praise.

“It was noted that instead of sensationalising the discovery of the dead body, the authorities should focus on preventing such heinous crimes and ensuring justice is served,” the statement read in part.

The council expressed concern that Azuka’s murder was the second high-profile killing of young, aspiring leaders from Onitsha within four months.

It recalled the recent 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.

The community questioned the government’s handling of Azuka’s case, asking why it took over 40 days to locate him and whether the response from security agencies was adequate.

https://punchng.com/traditional-council-knocks-soludo-over-lawmakers-murder-demands-justice/