The Anambra State House of Assembly was enveloped in grief on Friday, 14th February 2025, as lawmakers, government officials, political stakeholders, and sympathizers gathered to honor the late Hon. Justice Azuka, the representative of Onitsha North I Constituency, whose life was tragically cut short by criminal elements. The solemn valedictory session, presided over by the Speaker of the Assembly, Rt. Hon. Somtochukwu Nkem Udeze Ph.D, was marked by tears, anguish, and heartfelt tributes to the fallen lawmaker.
The late Hon. Justice Azuka was abducted on December 24, 2024, and his remains were discovered on February 6, 2025, after a distressing 44-day search. Addressing the Assembly, Rt. Hon. Udeze lamented the brutal murder of his colleague, describing it as a cruel act committed by those who have forsaken their humanity. He emphasized that his death reinforces the urgent need to strengthen security across Anambra State.
“The 8th Assembly, under my leadership, will ensure that Hon. Justice Azuka did not die in vain. We shall honor him by continuing to advocate for a safer and more secure Anambra. We will provide every legislative support necessary to ensure the safety of lives and properties in our state,” the Speaker assured.
Rt. Hon. Udeze reaffirmed the Assembly’s support for the implementation of the Anambra State Homeland Security Law 2025, which establishes Agunechemba, a structured security framework for internal security and public safety. He urged all stakeholders to contribute to securing communities and preventing similar tragedies in the future.
Dignitaries present at the session included the Deputy Governor of Anambra State, His Excellency Dr. Onyekachukwu Ibezim, who represented Governor Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, CFR. Also in attendance were the National Chairman of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), Barr. Sly Ezeokenwa; the Special Adviser (SPAD) to the Governor on Political Matters, Dr. Alex Obiogbolu; former Governor of Anambra State, His Excellency Mr. Peter Obi; former House members, friends, and well-wishers, all of whom paid glowing tributes to the late lawmaker.
In his speech, the Speaker also commended security agencies for swiftly apprehending the perpetrators of the heinous act. He pointed out that the criminals were young men between the ages of 19 and 30, stressing the need for holistic measures to address youth delinquency through education and employment opportunities. He noted that Governor Soludo’s initiatives, such as the ‘One Youth, Two Skills’ program and the Solution Innovation District, are already empowering young people to embrace productive lives.
Beyond the legislative commitment to security, Rt. Hon. Udeze assured that the Assembly would continue to support the family that Hon. Justice Azuka left behind. “As an Assembly, we will not abandon his family in this time of grief. We will stand by them to ease their burdens and ensure his children receive the care and support they need,” he pledged.
The Speaker concluded his address with a reflection on the brevity of life, urging all present to live rightly and be kind to one another. He expressed deep gratitude to the Conference of Speakers of State Legislatures, led by Rt. Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin, and all those who had sent condolence messages to the 8th Assembly.
As the session ended, the chamber resonated with emotions, with colleagues and associates struggling to come to terms with the loss. The solemn ceremony underscored the painful reality of Hon. Justice Azuka’s absence and the collective resolve to ensure that his death leads to meaningful changes in the state’s security landscape.
The burial ceremony of late Hon. Justice Azuka holds tomorrow in Onitsha North Local Government Area, Anambra State.
May Hon. Justice continue to rest in peace.
Franklin Osankwa
Special Assistant/New Media
Office of the Speaker
