Ime Obi Onitsha, the apex traditional council of the commercial city, has expressed deep sorrow and outrage over the gruesome killing of Justice Azuka, a lawmaker representing Onitsha North Constituency 1 in the Anambra State House of Assembly.
At a town hall meeting held on January 10, 2025, the council decried the abduction of the legislator on Christmas Eve and the subsequent discovery of his corpse on February 6.
In a communiqué signed by Chief Osita Anionwu, Chief of Staff of the council, the body described the murder as a shockwave that has rattled the entire community.
The council noted that Azuka’s murder marks the second high-profile killing of a young community leader in four months. It referenced the October 2024 attack on Anambra’s Commissioner for Youth Development, Patrick Agha, which claimed the life of Onitsha Youth Council leader, Kpajie Ernest Offiah.
Further highlighting Onitsha’s worsening insecurity, the council also cited the February 4 attack on Nweze Tony Nwora, Mayor and Chairman of Onitsha North Local Council.
The council lamented what it described as the government’s inadequate response to security issues, questioning Governor Charles Soludo’s commitment to fixing Onitsha as promised during his inauguration.
Azuka was lauded for his dedication to public service, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic when he led palliative distribution efforts. His contributions to the community extended to co-founding Stroke Action, Life After Stroke Centre, which rehabilitates stroke survivors.
The council condemned the circulation of a social media video showing a suspected killer posing with Azuka’s corpse, alleging that the footage may have been released by security operatives seeking self-promotion.
“Rather than sensationalising such atrocities, the authorities should focus on preventing them and delivering justice,” the communiqué stated.
Ime Obi also criticised the lack of communication from the authorities during the 40-day search for Azuka, raising questions about government efficiency. It demanded a thorough investigation, noting that the ransom allegedly paid to the abductors should be traceable via electronic banking records.
The council called for unity in addressing insecurity and supporting victims’ families. It urged residents to honour Azuka’s memory by attending his funeral on February 15 and working collectively for a safer Onitsha.
“Justice must be served to ensure peace and security are restored,” the council added.
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