Chukwudumeme Onwuamadike, also known as Evans, a convicted billionaire kidnapper, along with his co-defendant Joseph Emeka, has opted for a plea bargain regarding amended charges of murder and attempted kidnapping.
Evans and Emeka were supposed to be re-arraigned on an updated five-count charge, which included murder, attempted murder, conspiracy to commit a felony (kidnapping), and attempted murder. However, the re-arraignment was postponed due to the absence of Evans’ lawyer.
The prosecution informed the court that the defense counsel was aware of the re-arraignment, and Mr. Nelson Onyejaka, the second defense counsel, was present. The prosecution mentioned they had communicated with Evans’ lawyer, who resides in Abuja, but needed to know why he was absent.
The prosecution stated, “Although the defendants have applied for a plea bargain, it is still under consideration by the Attorney-General. We have an amended charge, as the fourth defendant has been convicted and the third defendant has died in prison. We request another date for the re-arraignment of the two defendants.”
Justice Adenike Coker adjourned the case until June 13 for re-arraignment and directed Evans to ensure his lawyer’s presence in court. “Given the absence of the first defense counsel, this case is adjourned until June 13. The first defendant is directed to ensure his counsel is in court. There is no excuse for his absence,” Judge Coker stated.
