Chukwudumeme Onwamadike, better known as Evans, the notorious kidnapper, was re-arraigned before the Lagos High Court in Ikeja on Thursday. Evans, who has been in the news for his series of high-profile kidnappings, appeared in court facing charges related to the murder of two police officers and an attempt to kidnap Chief Obianodo Vincent, the owner of Young Shall Grow Transport Company.
During the hearing, Evans was represented by his new legal counsel, Chief Emefo Etudo. The case, which was brought before Justice Adenike Coker, involves a five-count charge, including allegations of murder and kidnapping. Evans, alongside his co-defendant Joseph Nkenna Emeka, pleaded not guilty to the charges.
Etudo informed the court of Evansâ application for a plea bargain, which covers three ongoing criminal cases as well as two additional charges he wishes to resolve on compassionate grounds. The lawyer highlighted that Evans had previously been convicted in two separate cases.
In his submission, Etudo made a compelling case for his client’s transformation. He stated that Evans had reformed during his time in prison and now considered himself a teacher and a productive member of society. Etudo requested that Evans be removed from the three pending charges, suggesting that a fresh charge be filed, to which Evans would plead guilty in exchange for a 14-year prison sentence. This sentence, if granted, would run concurrently with any existing sentences.
Furthermore, Etudo provided extensive documentation, including Evansâ educational achievements while incarcerated. He mentioned that during his time in prison, Evans took part in a Federal Government scholarship program that offered inmates the opportunity to earn an education. Evans now holds a National Certificate in Education (NCE) in Economics and has also been accepted into the National Open University of Nigeria, where he is pursuing a degree in Political Science.
The defense also emphasized Evansâ skills in welding and metal fabrication, which he learned through a program by the Federal Ministry of Labour and Productivity. Etudo presented certificates and other supporting documents to the court to verify these claims.
The prosecution, represented by Mr. A. Y. Sule, did not object to the plea bargain application, and Justice Coker scheduled a decision for March 20. This decision will depend on the outcome of a committee set up by the Lagos state government to review Evans’ application.
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