Ogwashi-Uku Palace Hails IGP Over Suspect’s Arrest, Demands Prosecution

The Palace of the Obi of Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom in Delta State has commended the Inspector-General of Police over the arrest of Christopher Nduka Odiakose, also known as Christopher Oduwanor, while urging authorities to prosecute him and apprehend other suspects still at large.

Oduwanor was reportedly arrested on Sunday, October 25, 2026, by operatives of the Force Intelligence Department of the Nigeria Police Force in Abuja, working with personnel of Zone 5 Police Headquarters in Benin City, Edo State.

His arrest followed intelligence gathering and efforts to track him down after he had allegedly evaded arrest for more than two years.

According to reports by Emerald Nigeria and Oasis Magazine, the suspect had previously been declared wanted in connection with allegations of conspiracy to commit murder and murder arising from violent incidents in Otulu, within Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom.

A warrant of arrest was reportedly issued against him by a court in connection with the allegations.

Reacting to the development, the palace of His Royal Majesty, Obi Ifechukwude Aninshi Okonjo II, welcomed the arrest and praised the Inspector-General of Police, officers of the Force Intelligence Department and the Zone 5 Police Command for their efforts.

The Palace Secretary, Prince Ifeakanachukwu Emordi, who spoke on behalf of the traditional institution, described the arrest as an important step towards ensuring accountability and restoring lasting peace to the community.

He urged the police to conclude their investigations and ensure that the suspect is prosecuted in accordance with the law.

The palace also called on the police to intensify efforts to apprehend other individuals wanted in connection with alleged criminal activities in Ogwashi-Uku and its environs.

It maintained that the arrest of one suspect should not bring an end to investigations into outstanding cases involving violence and insecurity in the kingdom.

According to the palace, all suspects against whom credible evidence exists should be brought before the appropriate courts to answer the allegations against them.

The traditional institution further pledged its continued cooperation with the police and other lawful security agencies to promote peace, protect residents and ensure that those accused of criminal offences are subjected to due process.

The palace also appealed to residents to remain calm, cooperate with security agencies and refrain from actions capable of interfering with ongoing investigations or judicial proceedings.

Oduwanor is reportedly the younger brother of Francis Oduwanor, who has also faced allegations relating to violent incidents in the area.

The arrest comes amid longstanding security concerns in Otulu, where allegations of violence and disputes surrounding traditional leadership have generated tensions over the years.

Earlier reports by Oasis Magazine in November 2024 stated that Francis Oduwanor and several associates had faced criminal allegations, including unlawful possession of firearms, causing grievous harm and conduct likely to breach the peace. Those allegations are separate from the need to establish the evidence against each individual through the courts.

The latest arrest has raised hopes among community stakeholders that outstanding investigations will be pursued and that further steps will be taken to strengthen security in the area.

The palace reiterated its commitment to peace and the protection of residents, insisting that no individual should be allowed to undermine the kingdom’s stability through violence, intimidation or other criminal conduct.

It urged the police to sustain their efforts until all outstanding cases are addressed and every suspect required by law to face trial is brought before the appropriate court.