Traditional council knocks Soludo over lawmaker’s murder, demands justice

Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo

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.

PUNCH Online had reported four days ago that the state police command said it had arrested nine suspects in connection to the death of the lawmaker.

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.

Council members also raised concerns about the lack of communication from the authorities to the public and Azuka’s family throughout the ordeal.

Participants at the town hall meeting reminded the administration of Soludo’s inaugural speech in March 2022, where he declared that “fixing Onitsha is the key to fixing Anambra State, which in turn is the key to fixing the South-East.”

They questioned whether that commitment still held, given the deteriorating security situation in Onitsha, which remains the economic hub and revenue base of the state.

The council also highlighted Azuka’s dedication to public service, recalling his role during the COVID-19 pandemic as a member of the Onitsha Community COVID Response Team, his efforts in rehabilitating stroke survivors, and his commitment as a legislator to his constituents.

They further demanded a transparent investigation, raising concerns over the alleged ransom payment.

The communique read, “An electronic movement of the alleged large sum of money ought to be traceable through the banking system.

“The images of the alleged abductors do not reflect persons handling large sums of money, thus raising the question of possible other accomplices.”

The Onitsha community called on the authorities to establish the truth “without fear or favour” and to ensure that those responsible for Azuka’s murder are brought to justice.

The statement added, “How can the community work together to restore peace and security to Onitsha and Anambra State?

“Will the state government address the root causes of insecurity and establish a mechanism for providing emotional and material support to victims’ families?”

The council urged residents to come together to honour Azuka at his funeral on Saturday, February 15, adding, “May his legacy inspire us to work towards a safer and more secure Onitsha.”