Justice Azuka, a member of the Anambra State House of Assembly representing Onitsha North Constituency, has reportedly been kidnapped by unknown individuals.
The incident occurred late Tuesday night as he was returning home along Ugwunapampa Road in Inland Town, Onitsha, a major commercial hub in the state.
Azuka, a prominent Labour Party leader who recently reclaimed his seat following a court ruling that unseated the Peoples Democratic Party’s Douglas Egbuna, was allegedly taken to an undisclosed location.
A close associate, speaking anonymously, revealed that there has been no contact from the kidnappers since the abduction, leaving the lawmaker’s whereabouts uncertain.
The news has shocked residents, who are urging swift action to address ongoing security challenges in the region.
Anambra State Police Command spokesperson, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, confirmed the abduction and stated that a rescue operation is underway.
Ikenga disclosed that the police have initiated plans to track the kidnappers and safely recover the lawmaker.
He added, “The incident occurred on December 24, 2024, around 9:20 pm, and the Command is actively following leads to resolve the case. Updates will be provided as investigations progress.”
This is not the first time a lawmaker in Anambra State has been targeted. In 2022, Mr Okechukwu Okoye, who represented Aguata Constituency 1, was kidnapped and tragically killed, with his remains found in a local community.