Police Tighten Net Around Illegal Self-Styled Traditional Ruler Of Otulu Ogwashi-Uku

Federal Intelligence police officers on the instructions of the the Inspector General of Police have arrested and commenced the prosecution of Francis Oduwanor, also known as Francis Odiakose or “Big Fish,” who has been parading himself as the traditional ruler of Otulu Ogwashi-Uku in Aniocha South Local Government Area, Delta State.

This follows a five-count charge filed against him at the Federal High Court in Abuja under Charge No. FHC/ABJ/CR/566/202.

The charges were signed by Samuel Mallum Esq on behalf of the Inspector General of Police.

The charges stem from Oduwanor’s alleged possession of several illegal firearms and his involvement in violent crimes.

According to the charge sheet sighted by our reporter, Oduwanor and his associates—including Christopher Odiakose, Innocent Chukwuma, Ajeh Anthony, Jude Onwueniene, and Aka Ayaya, who are all currently at large—were accused of unlawfully possessing firearms, including pump-actions and double-barrel guns, in violation of Section 3 of the Firearms Act.

Other charges include the use of dangerous weapons with intent to maim, disfigure, and disable, resulting in grievous harm to one James Jonah, who sustained a gunshot injury to his shoulder and an amputated thumb.

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These acts were said to be in contravention of the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act, 2013.

The defendants were also charged with causing public terror and conduct likely to breach the peace in Otulu Ogwashi-Uku.

Background of the Crisis

The conflict in Otulu Ogwashi-Uku escalated in 2022 when Oduwanor allegedly orchestrated an ambush against the Obi of Ogwashi-Uku, His Royal Majesty Obi (Dr.) Ifechukwude Aninshi Okonjo II, and his brother, Prince Onyema Okonjo, during a royal visit to the community which is under the Obi of Ogwashi-Uku.

The attack, reportedly involving hired mercenaries hired by Oduwanor who were armed with dangerous weapons, left several people injured.

Following the incident, Oduwanor declared himself the traditional ruler of Otulu, contrary to Delta State’s chieftaincy laws. His actions were widely condemned, and the state government declared him and his key associate, Christopher Odiakose, wanted.

Despite being on the run, Oduwanor recently resurfaced in Otulu after his associates facing charges at the courts were unexpectedly released from the Federal Correctional Center in Ogwashi-Uku in circumstances community members claim as unusual. Francis Oduwanor and his associates then allegedly attacked and expelled the recognized, gazetted Chief Anthony Enurah, appointed by the Obi of Ogwashi-Uku and endorsed by the state government. Oduwanor and his associates have since been accused of resuming their campaign of intimidation and terror within the community, further destabilizing the area.

Calls for Police Action

Local leaders and residents have expressed concern over the renewed activities of Oduwanor and his associates. They have called on law enforcement agencies to expedite the arrest of all suspects to restore peace and stability to Otulu Ogwashi-Uku.

Senior police officers, responding to these calls, have reassured the public of their commitment to apprehending all defendants and bringing them to justice. “No stone will be left unturned in ensuring the suspects face the full weight of the law,” one officer said.

The Need for Stability

The crisis in Otulu Ogwashi-Uku has not only disrupted community life but also raised broader concerns about the abuse of traditional titles and the exploitation of communal lands for personal gain. Legal experts have emphasized that the chieftaincy system in Delta State is governed by clear legal frameworks that do not support self-proclamation of traditional rulership without proper government recognition.

Residents and stakeholders now await decisive action from law enforcement agencies to address the situation and ensure lasting peace in Otulu Ogwashi-Uku.