The Ogwashi-Uku Town Union (OTU) has raised serious concerns over the release of individuals accused of violent crimes, warning that their freedom has led to escalating insecurity in Otulu Ogwashi-Uku, Delta State.
The union described the situation as a direct consequence of judicial recklessness, pointing to the recent brutal murders of innocent community members, including a retired military officer.
In a statement issued on February 13, 2025, and signed by Mr. Nkem Charles, the union condemned the decision of the judiciary to grant bail to high-risk suspects despite repeated warnings.
The OTU referenced a letter it had sent on July 12, 2024, urging the judiciary to deny bail to certain individuals due to the severity of their crimes.
However, Justice Flora Azinge of Court 4, Delta State High Court, Asaba, proceeded to release them under what the union described as questionable conditions, a move it says has had tragic consequences.
The union particularly called attention to the case of Christopher Nduka Odiakose, who had previously been declared a wanted fugitive by the Nigeria Police after an extensive investigation.
He was reportedly apprehended at the scene of a bank robbery in Agbor and was already on the Delta State Security Council’s watchlist. Despite these serious charges, he was granted bail under what the union described as lenient conditions.
The OTU further alleged that law enforcement efforts were obstructed when officers from the Federal Intelligence Department (FID) attempted to arrest Odiakose at Court 4 in Asaba last year on gun-running charges. Instead of being taken into custody, court officials allegedly assisted his escape.
Following his release, he was accused of committing two murders, further reinforcing fears about the obstruction of justice.
The gravity of the situation was further underscored by the recent conviction and sentencing to death of another suspect, Samson Eleme, by Justice C.D. Diai for armed robbery.
The union, expressing its deep concerns, has requested the Chief Judge to transfer cases before Justice Azinge to other courts and launch an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the obstruction of the arrest of the murder suspect by officials in Court 4, Asaba.
Additionally, it called for enhanced security measures by the police and the state government to protect residents of the Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom.
The OTU reaffirmed its commitment to upholding justice and ensuring the safety of the community, urging authorities to take decisive action to restore public confidence in the judicial system and bring perpetrators of these heinous crimes to justice.
