Reactions have continued to trail the confirmation by the Anambra State Police Command that two suspects linked to the kidnap and killing of Hon. Justice Azuka, a member representing Onitsha North 1 constituency in the Anambra State House of Assembly, have escaped from police custody.
The development has sparked widespread outrage, with many questioning the integrity of the security forces.Azuka was abducted on Christmas Eve while traveling home for the yuletide, and his remains were discovered at the foot of the Second Niger Bridge in Onitsha on February 6.
In a shocking turn of events, the police revealed on Tuesday night that two key suspects managed to escape while being led to the home of another suspect allegedly responsible for keeping stolen vehicles used by the criminal syndicate.
According to a statement issued by the spokesperson of the Anambra State Police Command, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, the suspects fled when the operatives pursued another group of accused individuals during the operation.
“When the operatives sighted the accused and went after them to arrest them, the two suspects who led them there took to their heels and disappeared into thin air,” Ikenga stated.
The revelation has ignited widespread criticism, with many expressing deep concerns over the handling of such a high-profile case.
The Anambra State House of Assembly has outrightly rejected the police report, demanding urgent action to re-arrest the escaped suspects.
Lawmakers insisted that the police must do everything within their power to ensure justice for the slain legislator.Prominent voices in the media have also weighed in on the controversy.
A media personality, Mr. Uche Nworah, questioned the delay in disclosing the escape, noting that it reportedly happened before the current Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, assumed office.
“The suspects already escaped before the current Police Commissioner took over. Why wasn’t the incident made public? The Commissioner was not aware until Monday, which prompted his directive to launch a manhunt for the escaped suspects and disciplinary action against the officers involved,” Nworah stated.
The unfolding situation has further eroded public confidence in the police force, with many calling for an independent investigation into the matter. Civil society groups and community leaders have also urged the state government to intervene to ensure justice is served.
As the pressure mounts, the Anambra State Police Command has assured the public of its commitment to tracking down the escaped suspects and holding any negligent officers accountable.
However, many believe that only swift and transparent action will restore public trust in the state’s security apparatus.
