Otokoto Saga: The Police Officer Who Refused to Be Bought -By David.C. Onwualu

While others were indicted, CSP Samuel Onwualu insisted on justice — and paid the price with a transfer.

When the Otokoto saga rocked Owerri in 1996, the city was gripped by fear, anger, and outrage. The brutal killing of 11-year-old Ikechukwu Okoronkwo for ritual purposes sparked riots, exposed deep corruption, and led to the setting up of a judicial panel of inquiry by then Military Administrator, Colonel Tanko Zubairu.

While some senior police officers were later indicted for complicity — among them Commissioner of Police David Abure — one officer stood out for his integrity: Chief Superintendent of Police (CSP) Samuel Onwualu.

Although he did not personally lead the team that arrested Chief Vincent Duru, popularly known as Otokoto, the arrest was carried out under his authority. As head of the unit, CSP Onwualu authorised the operation that placed the notorious hotelier in custody.

What happened next revealed his character. During interrogation, Otokoto allegedly offered Onwualu a huge sum of money in exchange for his freedom. Onwualu refused. Instead, he ordered that the suspect be charged to court with all available evidence. His decision put him at odds with his superiors, who reportedly wanted Duru released.

For his upright stance, CSP Onwualu paid a price. He was suddenly transferred from Imo State to Sokoto State — widely seen as a punitive move designed to cut him off from the case. Yet his insistence ensured that the case went to court, despite the pressures and threats.

Later, when the Zubairu Panel of Inquiry investigated the saga, it indicted several police officers but commended CSP Onwualu for his professionalism and honesty.

In the chaos of the Otokoto saga, when corruption and fear seemed to dominate, CSP Samuel Onwualu stood as proof that there were still police officers willing to do the right thing, even at personal cost. His name deserves to be remembered alongside the story of Otokoto — not as one who failed the people, but as one who upheld justice.

Author’s Note:
This piece draws on eyewitness testimony and historical records surrounding the 1996 Otokoto saga in Owerri, Imo State. It highlights the overlooked role of CSP Samuel Onwualu, who was commended by the Zubairu Panel of Inquiry for his integrity during the investigation.