The Onitsha traditional council formally urged Dr. Kayode Egbetokun, the inspector-general of police (IGP), to take control of the investigation into Justice Azuka’s murder.
They expressed dissatisfaction with the Anambra state police command’s handling of the case, citing concerns about transparency and procedural irregularities.
Justice Azuka, representing Onitsha North constituency, faced a brutal attack by gunmen while traveling home for Christmas.
After being held captive for over a month, authorities discovered his decomposing body on the Second Niger Bridge.
This incident underscores the escalating security challenges within the state, raising urgent concerns about public safety.
This alarming discovery underscores the urgent need for immediate action to address the escalating safety issues.
In a direct appeal to the IGP and Anambra State Governor, Chukwuma Soludo, the council clearly expressed its grievances regarding the investigation. They emphasized the necessity for transparency and swift resolution to restore public trust.
They highlighted inconsistencies in state authorities’ statements, particularly regarding financial transactions tied to Azuka’s bank account.
Initially, police asserted that suspects withdrew N100 million, but Governor Soludo countered this, clarifying that the account was frozen.
This discrepancy raised concerns about transparency and accuracy in the investigation.
The Onitsha community emphasized its demand for clarity on critical issues.
They sought answers regarding the timeline of the lawmaker’s death, the routine freezing of kidnap victims’ accounts, and how custody suspects managed to escape.
The council’s letter highlighted the community’s frustration with the investigation’s handling.
Furthermore, the council raised broader concerns about public safety in Anambra state. They urged Governor Soludo to restore confidence in his administration’s security strategy. The letter concluded with a respectful demand for answers and actions to address growing safety concerns in the region.
The case has gained attention following a February 19 announcement by the Anambra state police command. They reported that two suspects connected to Justice Azuka’s murder had escaped from custody. This development intensified public outcry and fueled calls for a more robust and transparent investigation.
The Onitsha traditional council stressed the urgency of swift justice. They warned that failure to resolve this case could erode trust in law enforcement and governance in the region. The community appealed to federal authorities for decisive intervention to ensure accountability for Justice Azuka’s death.
As investigations proceed, citizens and local leaders await meaningful actions to address this tragic incident and the broader security challenges facing Anambra state.