Oduah Estate Tenants Cries Out, As Police Officer Allegedly Terrorizes Community Amid Fears For Safety
By Musiliu Opeyemi
Residents of Oduah Estate in Abuja are living in a state of fear and agitation, alleging a campaign of intimidation and death threats that they claim is perpetuated by a police officer, Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Jeffery Ugochukwu. The exact details of his police assignment remain unclear.
In a series of poignant “Save Our Souls” (SOS) petitions directed to key figures within the Nigeria Police Force—including the Inspector-General of Police, the Force Provost Marshal, and the Karu Area Command—concerned residents assert that DSP Ugochukwu has wielded his authority with little regard for the well-being of the community, endangering the lives of families, including vulnerable groups such as children and pregnant women.
‘A Law Unto Himself’
The Citizens Rights and Empowerment Advocacy Initiative (CREMA Initiative) voiced its condemnation in a petition dated August 13, 2025, referring to DSP Ugochukwu as “a threat to the lives of his co-tenants,” accusing him of living above the law and perpetuating a climate of fear. The petition highlighted that the situation is deteriorating and carries the risk of a tragic outcome if prompt action is not taken.
Previously, tenants had reported multiple incidents to the Force Provost Department in June 2025, alleging criminal intimidation, physical assaults, and even threats to shoot individuals within the estate.
Tear Gas Attacks and Alarming Conduct
The situation escalated significantly when residents accused Ugochukwu of spraying a tear gas-like substance through the ceiling, causing panic and breathing difficulties among families, particularly affecting children and a pregnant woman, as stated in CREMA’s petition. The officers’ behavior reportedly included playing loud music into the late hours of the night, disrupting the peaceful living environment and exacerbating health issues like hypertension.
Allegations of vandalism, including damaging utility lines and water pipes, have been documented. Disturbingly, on September 13, 2025, he allegedly threatened residents with lethal violence, stating, “Very soon I will get my rifle and fire everybody,” a threat that tenants captured on video.
Police Inaction And Growing Desperation
Residents have expressed frustration over stagnant police responses to their safety concerns. Mr. Ibe Uzoma, the estate caretaker, corroborated that despite multiple complaints made to the Karu Area Command, no substantial actions have been undertaken. The tenants approached the Trio Jurist Law Firm for representation to escalate their demands for protection, fearing that inaction could lead them to take matters into their own hands.
The lawyer’s petition to the Police Service Commission highlighted an apparent protective cover for Ugochukwu within the police hierarchy, stating that his actions endanger the lives of residents.
Targeting of Journalists in a Climate of Fear
In a startling recent development, DSP Ugochukwu purportedly targeted Comrade James Ezema, a journalist affiliated with multiple journalistic organizations, as he knocked on several doors looking for him. Ezema recounted his shock that Ugochukwu had no personal grievances against him, raising alarms that he could be at risk.
Ezema’s call to action was clear; he urged national authorities to hold DSP Ugochukwu and the Nigeria Police accountable for the threats he faces, echoing concerns that his case could resonate with other avoidable tragedies.
Continuous Appeals for Protection and Justice
On October 18, 2025, Ezema appealed to the Force Public Relations Officer (FPRO) for immediate intervention, demanding the officer’s removal and an investigation into the ongoing situation contributing to the escalating fears within the community.
Tenants now say they live in our constant apprehension, reinforcing their right to live without fear in their own homes. As they await a formal response from the Police Service Commission, they have begun seeking protection from other security agencies, signaling a dire need for safety and justice.
As the community stands at a pivotal moment, one resident summed up their plight: “All we are asking for is safety. We just want to live without fear in our own homes.”
