Nigeria, a nation rich in cultural diversity and historical narratives, has unfortunately also borne witness to a darker side of human endeavor – the emergence of hardened criminals whose actions have left indelible scars on the social fabric. From the era of notorious armed robbers who terrorized highways to the rise of sophisticated fraudsters and the perpetrators of heinous violent crimes, the landscape of criminality in Nigeria is complex and deeply unsettling. This article aims to compile an exhaustive list of such individuals, delving into their backgrounds, their modus operandi, and the lasting impact of their actions on Nigerian society. By examining these cases, we seek not only to document a critical aspect of Nigeria's history but also to understand the evolution of crime, the challenges faced by law enforcement, and the societal factors that may contribute to such egregious behavior. This comprehensive overview serves as a somber reminder of the human cost of crime and the persistent struggle for justice and security within the nation.

Armed Robbers

Ishola Oyenusi (Doctor Oyenusi): Considered the first known armed robber in Nigeria, Oyenusi terrorized Lagos in the 1970s with his gang, killing and robbing with impunity. He was executed on September 8, 1971.

Lawrence Anini (The Law): Anini was a notorious armed robber who ruled the underworld in Benin City in the 1980s. He was known for his brutality and was eventually arrested and executed in 1987.

Derico Nwamama: A feared armed robber in the early 2000s, Derico was known for his merciless killings and robberies in Anambra State. He was captured by the Bakassi Boys and beheaded in 2001.

Abiodun Egunjobi (Godogodo): A one-eyed armed robber, Godogodo terrorized Lagos and other southwestern states in the 1990s and early 2000s. He was arrested in 2013 after a long manhunt.

Ayo Adeleke (Ayomide): A notorious armed robber who terrorized Lagos in the 1980s and 1990s.

Baba Ijesha: A feared armed robber who was known for his brutal attacks on innocent civilians.

Kola Alapo: A notorious armed robber who was responsible for numerous robberies and killings in Lagos.

Kidnappers and Terrorists

Abubakar Shekau: A notorious terrorist and leader of Boko Haram, Shekau was responsible for numerous kidnappings, bombings, and killings in northern Nigeria. He reportedly killed himself in 2021.

Terwase Akwaza (Gana): A militia leader and notorious kidnapper, Gana terrorized Benue State for over a decade, collecting millions in ransom. He was eventually killed by the Nigerian Army in 2020.

Chukwudidumeme Onwuamadike (Evans): A notorious kidnapper, Evans was known for collecting huge ransoms from relatives of his victims. He was sentenced to life imprisonment.

Mohammed Yusuf: A Boko Haram leader who was responsible for numerous kidnappings, bombings, and killings in northern Nigeria.

Abubakar Adam Kambar: A Boko Haram commander who was responsible for numerous attacks on civilians and security forces.

Alex Delemchukwu Ekwulugo (Operation Python Dance): A notorious kidnapper who was responsible for numerous kidnappings in the southeastern region.

Other Notorious Criminals

Mighty Joe  (Isiaka Busari): A notorious gang leader, Mighty Joe took over Oyenusi's gang after his execution. He was known for his brutality and was responsible for numerous robberies and killings in Lagos. Mighty Joe's gang consisted of highly trained ex-soldiers. He was eventually captured and executed.

Shina Rambo: A feared armed robber in the 1990s, Shina Rambo was known for his ruthless operations in southwestern Nigeria. He reportedly turned to religion after surviving several assassination attempts.

Baddo of Ikorodu: A feared criminal in Lagos, Baddo was known for molesting children and women, as well as robbery. He evaded capture for a long time, despite multiple arrests.

Obidiozor Otokoto: A ritualist and robber who killed people for ritual purposes, Otokoto was known for his brutality and violence.

Godwin Nwaezea: A prominent member of the notorious "One Million Boys" gang, Nwaezea was involved in armed robberies, street violence, and extortion.

The compilation of this exhaustive list of hardened criminals in Nigeria's history serves as a stark and sobering reflection on the persistent challenges of crime and justice within the nation. From the legendary figures whose names once evoked widespread fear to the more contemporary perpetrators of complex schemes and brutal acts, each entry underscores the multifaceted nature of criminality and its devastating impact on individuals and communities. This historical overview not only documents the lives and actions of these notorious figures but also implicitly highlights the evolving strategies of law enforcement, the societal vulnerabilities exploited by criminals, and the enduring quest for security and accountability. While some of these individuals have met their end, and others languish in correctional facilities, their legacies serve as potent reminders of the importance of robust legal frameworks, effective policing, and proactive social interventions aimed at curbing criminal enterprise. Ultimately, understanding this darker facet of Nigeria's past is crucial for informing future efforts to build a safer, more just society for all its citizens.