Human rights and women’s advocacy groups are calling on Delta State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice to ensure a thorough and diligent prosecution of Francis Oduwanor Medolunwa, a suspected notorious gang leader accused of rape and armed robbery.
Oduwanor and his gang are alleged to have terrorized the Otulu Ogwashi community, creating a climate of fear and insecurity for residents.
The latest case involving Oduwanor centers around the brutal rape of a female victim, an incident that has sparked outrage and renewed call for justice.
Advocacy groups insist that prosecuting him to the fullest extent of the law is not only necessary for securing justice for the victim but also for sending a strong message against sexual violence in Delta State.
Oduwanor was on the run for three years after being declared wanted by the Inspector General of Police.
In addition to the current rape and robbery charges, Oduwanor is also facing criminal charges at the Federal High Court in Asaba for illegal possession of firearms and grievous harm to a victim whose hand was amputated by Oduwanor and his gang in a brutal attack. These charges further highlight his long history of violent crimes and underscore the urgent need for a comprehensive legal response.
Oduwanor and another co-defendant were arraigned on 7th February 2025, at the Delta State High Court on charges of rape and robbery. The judge has remanded the accused at the Federal Correctional Prison at Ogwashi-Uku, pending further court proceedings. The arraignment marks a critical step in ensuring that justice is served for the victims of their crimes.
This call for action comes on the heels of the successful prosecution of one of Oduwanor’s key gang members, Samson Eleme, also known as One Eye, who was convicted of armed robbery and sentenced to death by hanging. The conviction, handed down three weeks ago by Hon. Justice Diai of the Delta State High Court, was seen as a significant victory in the fight against violent crime in the state.
Advocacy groups are now urging the Attorney General’s Office to build on this momentum by ensuring that Oduwanor faces swift and decisive justice.
For years, Oduwanor and his gang have instilled terror within Otulu Ogwashi, engaging in violent crimes ranging from armed robbery to sexual violence, with little regard for the rule of law.
Community members have long lived in fear, with reports of his gang’s activities disrupting the peace and endangering lives. His capture and prosecution present a critical opportunity for the state to dismantle his criminal network and restore security to the area.
Speaking on the matter, a representative of a leading women’s rights group Women’s Initiative (WI) stated, “Justice must be swift and uncompromising. The brutal rape and robbery of this victim cannot be ignored.
“The Attorney General has demonstrated commitment in the past, as seen in the successful prosecution of Samson Eleme. We urge the same dedication in ensuring that Francis Oduwanor is brought to justice. Violence against women must never go unpunished.”
Security experts and legal professionals have also weighed in, emphasizing the importance of sustained legal action against criminal elements that have destabilized communities across Delta State.
They argue that Oduwanor’s prosecution must be thorough, ensuring no loopholes that could allow him to evade justice.
Oduwanor, at various times, had bragged and boasted as having connections to high government officials and political figures who were able to ensure he was never brought to justice as he assisted them in land transactions and politics as an enforcer.
With public pressure mounting, all eyes are now on the Office of the Attorney General to demonstrate unwavering resolve in the fight against sexual and violent crimes.
The conviction of Eleme set a precedent—now, the people of Delta State expect nothing less than a diligent and forceful legal pursuit of Francis Oduwanor.
