The search for a kidnapped Anambra State lawmaker took a twist on Thursday as police recovered his vehicle. But the big question remains: where is Hon. Justice Azuka? The recovery comes amid growing fears about security in the state, following a string of high-profile abductions. Here’s a quick rundown of what we know:
- Anambra lawmaker, Hon. Justice Azuka, kidnapped on Christmas Eve.
- His vehicle was found abandoned on Upper Iweka Road.
- Abductors remain unknown, no communication with family.
- Kidnapping follows other incidents, raising security concerns.
The Disappearance
Hon. Justice Azuka, representing Onitsha North Constituency, was snatched on Christmas Eve, around 9:20 p.m., while heading home along Ugwunabampa Road in Onitsha. According to reports, the lawmaker was ambushed, and there has been no word from his captors ever since.
Vehicle Recovery: A Glimmer of Hope?
The Anambra State Police Command announced on Thursday that they had found Azuka’s official vehicle. The car was discovered abandoned on Upper Iweka Road, thanks to an ongoing rescue operation. However, the whereabouts of the lawmaker remain unknown. According to Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Tochukwu Ikenga, the recovery was part of an “intense ongoing operation” to find him.
A State on Edge
The kidnapping has ratcheted up anxiety in Anambra, which has already been dealing with recent kidnappings. Just weeks prior, the retired Anglican Archbishop, Most Rev. Godwin Okpala, and his driver were also abducted and remain missing. And let’s not forget the tragic killing of a lecturer at Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK), Dr. Fabian Osita, just recently. All these incidents have created a chilling atmosphere of fear throughout the state. This spike in criminal activity has led to non-indigenes in the state to declare some areas as “no-go zones”, these include Orumba, Aguata, Ihiala, Nnewi, Idemili North and South, and Ekwusigo local government areas.
Police Intensify Search
The Anambra State Commissioner of Police, Nnaghe Obono Itam, has urged the rescue team to double their efforts to find the kidnapped lawmaker. The public are encouraged to share any information they may have, to help with the rescue.
Looking Ahead
As investigations continue, residents are left with apprehension and hope for the safe return of Hon. Justice Azuka. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the growing security challenges in the state and the need for more decisive action to protect citizens.
The Nigerian Police Force is working hard to find Hon. Justice Azuka, with the commissioner of police deploying more resources. We hope they find him soon.