By Charles Igwe
Authorities in Anambra State have successfully rearrested Ikemefuna Ossai, a prime suspect in the kidnapping and brutal murder of late Justice Azuka, who represented Onitsha 1 Constituency in the Anambra State House of Assembly.
Justice Azuka was abducted by gunmen on December 24, 2024, while returning home along Ugwunapampa Road in Inland Town, Onitsha. His lifeless body was later discovered on February 6, 2025, on the Second Niger Bridge, sending shockwaves across the state and beyond.
Confirming the development, the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Tochukwu Ikenga, issued a statement in Onitsha on Tuesday, detailing how the suspect was tracked and apprehended following a high-level intelligence-led operation that spanned several Nigerian states and even crossed into a neighbouring West African country.
“The Anambra State Police Command wishes to inform the public that its operatives have successfully rearrested one Ikemefuna Ossai, a suspect in the kidnapping and gruesome murder of the late Justice Azuka,” the statement read.
Ikenga explained that Ossai, who had earlier escaped from custody, was eventually nabbed on May 7 in Asaba, Delta State. He reportedly tried to flee again upon encountering law enforcement but was swiftly subdued, sustaining a gunshot wound to the leg during the arrest.
The Police Command has since briefed the late lawmaker’s family and leadership of the Anambra State House of Assembly, assuring them of full transparency and dedication to justice. During this engagement, the Commissioner of Police acknowledged operational lapses that led to the suspect’s earlier escape and expressed regret over the incident.
Ikenga further disclosed that valuable intelligence extracted from the suspect is currently aiding ongoing investigations, as the Police intensify efforts to track down other fleeing members of the criminal syndicate behind the lawmaker’s death.
“The Anambra State Police Command reiterates its unwavering resolve to bring all perpetrators to justice and ensure the safety and security of Ndi Anambra,” the statement concluded.
