Operatives of the Force Intelligence Department of the Nigeria Police Force in Abuja and Zone 5 Police Headquarters in Benin City, Edo State, have reportedly arrested Christopher Nduka Odiakose, also identified as Christopher Odiakose Oduwanor, a long-wanted suspect linked to allegations of murder and other serious violent crimes in Otulu community, Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom, Delta State.
The suspect was arrested on Sunday, October 25, 2026, following sustained intelligence gathering and efforts by police detectives to track down individuals wanted in connection with violent criminal activities in the area.
His arrest comes after more than two years during which he had reportedly evaded law enforcement authorities.
Christopher Oduwanor is the younger brother of Francis Oduwanor, another suspect facing criminal proceedings in connection with alleged violent offences. Francis is reportedly being held at the Federal Correctional Centre in Ogwashi-Uku.
The two brothers have featured in allegations surrounding violent criminal activities that reportedly plagued parts of Otulu, Ogwashi-Uku, for several years, creating widespread fear and insecurity among residents.
Police Had Previously Declared Suspect Wanted
A Special Police Gazette Bulletin issued under the authority of the Inspector-General of Police had previously declared Christopher Nduka Odiakose wanted by the Nigeria Police Force.
The bulletin, bearing reference number CR: 3000/ZN.5/DFA/ZPPRO/VOL.2/159, was issued through the office of the Assistant Inspector-General of Police, Zone 5 Command Headquarters, Benin City, Edo State.
According to the police publication, a warrant of arrest had been issued against the suspect by the High Court of Justice in Benin City in connection with allegations of conspiracy to commit murder and murder arising from events in Otulu, Ogwashi-Uku, on December 24, 2024.
The suspect has also been linked by community sources to allegations involving rape, terrorism, armed robbery and kidnapping, although the precise charges to be preferred against him following his arrest have yet to be independently confirmed.
His arrest represents a potentially significant development in efforts to bring individuals suspected of serious violent crimes in the Ogwashi-Uku area before the courts.
Ogwashi-Uku Royal Palace Welcomes Arrest
Reacting to news of the arrest, the Palace of His Royal Majesty, Obi Ifechukwude Aninshi Okonjo II, the Obi of Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom, welcomed the development and commended the leadership of the Nigeria Police Force for its determination to bring wanted suspects to justice.
Speaking on behalf of the Palace, the Palace Secretary, Prince Ifeakanachukwu Emordi, expressed appreciation to the Inspector-General of Police and the detectives involved in the operation.
“The Palace of the Obi of Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom warmly welcomes the arrest of Christopher Oduwanor, who had been declared wanted by the Nigeria Police Force in connection with very serious criminal allegations.
“We commend the Inspector-General of Police and the officers of Zone 5 Police Command and the Force Intelligence Department for their persistence, professionalism and determination in tracking down suspects who have evaded arrest.
“This arrest sends an important message that individuals accused of serious crimes cannot evade the law indefinitely. We urge the police to ensure that the investigation is thoroughly concluded and that the suspect is diligently prosecuted in accordance with the law,” Prince Emordi stated.
Palace Says Security Situation in Otulu Has Improved
For residents of Otulu, Ogwashi-Uku, the arrest is being welcomed as an important development in efforts to restore lasting peace and security to a community that has experienced serious incidents of violence and insecurity over the years.
The allegations surrounding Christopher Oduwanor and his elder brother, Francis, have featured prominently in longstanding security concerns within the community.
With Francis already facing criminal proceedings and Christopher now reportedly in police custody, community leaders are hopeful that the latest development will further strengthen public confidence in law enforcement and help prevent a recurrence of the violence that previously affected the area.
The Palace Secretary noted that the security situation in Otulu had already improved considerably following sustained interventions by security agencies and the traditional institution.
“Otulu, Ogwashi-Uku, is today considerably safer and calmer than it was during the years when violent criminal activities created fear among innocent residents.
“The Obi of Ogwashi-Uku remains firmly committed to ensuring that every community within the Kingdom enjoys peace, security and the protection of the law.
“Our people must never again be subjected to an atmosphere of intimidation, lawlessness and violence. The era in which criminal elements could terrorise innocent residents with impunity must be brought permanently to an end,” he added.
Palace Urges Police to Arrest Remaining Suspects
The Palace further called on the Nigeria Police Force to intensify efforts to apprehend other suspects still at large in connection with outstanding criminal investigations involving violence in Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom.
According to Prince Emordi, the arrest of one wanted suspect, however significant, should not mark the conclusion of the police investigation.
“We urge the Inspector-General of Police to ensure that all other suspects against whom credible evidence exists are apprehended and brought before the appropriate courts.
“No individual or group should be permitted to undermine the peace of Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom through violence, intimidation or criminality.
“The Palace will continue to cooperate fully with the Nigeria Police Force and other lawful security agencies in their efforts to maintain peace and ensure that justice is served,” he said.
The Palace also appealed to residents to remain peaceful, cooperate with law enforcement agencies and avoid any actions that could interfere with ongoing investigations or judicial proceedings.
The arrest is expected to renew attention on outstanding criminal investigations involving violent incidents in Otulu and other parts of Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom.
For the people of Otulu, the latest development offers renewed hope that the years of fear and insecurity are giving way to a more peaceful future, as the law takes its course against those accused of serious crimes.
