The Anambra State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of nine individuals suspected to be involved in the abduction and murder of Justice Azuka, the lawmaker representing Onitsha North 1 Constituency in the Anambra State House of Assembly.
Azuka was kidnapped on December 24, 2024, along Ugwunaobankpa Road in Inland Town, Onitsha, while returning home for the holidays. Tragically, his decomposing body was discovered near the Second Niger Bridge in the early hours of Thursday, sending shockwaves across the state.
Police Confirm Arrests and Recovery of Firearms
In a statement issued on Friday, the Anambra State Commissioner of Police, Nnaghe Itam, revealed that a joint security team, acting on intelligence, conducted an operation that led to the discovery of Azuka’s remains and the arrest of nine suspects.
“Following intelligence-led operations, security operatives swiftly apprehended nine suspects believed to be actively involved in the crime,” Itam stated.
During the operation, law enforcement agents recovered two pump-action guns from the suspects. Additionally, one of the arrested individuals sustained a gunshot wound to the leg following an exchange of gunfire with the police.
Identities of the Arrested Suspects
The suspects taken into custody include:
- Ugochukwu Onuorah (30)
- Ikemefuna Ossai (20)
- Ikenna Orugu (27)
- Chibuike Obiefuna (19)
- Chinonso Olisa (19)
- Chinedu Okoli (21)
- David Ojini (25)
- Peter Sunday (20) – who reportedly has a prominent chest tattoo that reads “No Peace 4 d Government.”
Justice Azuka’s abduction on Christmas Eve had sparked widespread concerns, with calls from political leaders, colleagues, and the public demanding urgent action for his rescue. His death has deepened fears over insecurity in Anambra State, prompting renewed calls for stronger measures against criminal activities in the region.
The Anambra State Police Command has assured the public that investigations are ongoing and that all those responsible will be brought to justice. Meanwhile, security agencies are intensifying efforts to curb criminal elements operating in the state.
Azuka’s tragic demise has left the political landscape in mourning, with many calling for a thorough probe into the circumstances surrounding his death and greater security measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.
