Gunmen abducted Justice Azuka, a member of the Anambra State House of Assembly, on Tuesday night, along Ugwunapampa Road in Onitsha North Local Government Area. The lawmaker, who represents Onitsha North Constituency I, was returning home for Christmas when he was intercepted by the assailants.
Confirmation and Police Response
The police spokesperson in Anambra State, Superintendent Tochukwu Ikenga, confirmed the incident, stating that the abduction occurred around 9:20 p.m. Operational plans have been activated to rescue Mr. Azuka and apprehend the perpetrators.
Escalating Violence in Anambra
Anambra State, like other South-East states, has experienced a surge in attacks by armed groups in recent years. Politicians, government officials, security personnel, and even religious leaders have increasingly become targets.
Previous High-Profile Incidents:
- May 2022: Okechukwu Okoye, a lawmaker representing Aguata 2 Constituency, was abducted and beheaded alongside his aide, Cyril Chiegboka.
- Same Year: Two former members of the state assembly were abducted and killed in separate incidents.
- Earlier This Month: Retired Archbishop Godwin Okpala of the Anglican Diocese of Nnewi and his driver were declared missing and remain unaccounted for.
Possible Motives and Accusations
The Nigerian government has accused the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) of orchestrating some of the violence in the region. IPOB, advocating for the independence of Biafra, has consistently denied these allegations.
Government Efforts
In response to the worsening insecurity, Anambra State Governor Charles Soludo has declared amnesty for criminals and kidnappers on three separate occasions since taking office. Despite these efforts, violent incidents persist, highlighting the complex security challenges facing the region.
The abduction of Justice Azuka underscores the urgency for sustained and innovative measures to address the escalating violence in Anambra and across the South-East.
