Notorious Kidnapper Evans Opts for Plea Deal Amid Fresh Murder Charges

The re-arraignment of Chukwudumeme Onwuamadike, infamously known as Evans, and his co-defendant, Joseph Emeka, was postponed at the Lagos High Court in Ikeja.

Evans, a convicted kidnapping kingpin, faces new charges of conspiracy, attempted kidnapping, and murder, stemming from an incident on August 27, 2013, where they allegedly killed Peter Nweke and attempted to kill others in Festac Town, Lagos State.

Justice Adenike Coker postponed the arraignment to June 13 due to the absence of Evans’ attorney. The delay occurred despite state attorney Yusuf Sule’s assertion that Evans’ lawyer was aware of the court date. This postponement was also attributed to ongoing plea negotiations between the defendants and the state.

The amended five-count charge against Evans and Emeka highlights their alleged criminal activities, including the murder of Peter Nweke and the attempted murders of Chijioke Ngozi and Obianado Vincent, chairman of Young Shall Grow Motors. The previous charges included other defendants, Udeme Frank and Chiemeka Arinze, but they were excluded from the new charges following Arinze’s death in prison and Frank’s conviction.

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When the case was presented, both defendants claimed ignorance of the arraignment schedule and were unsure if their attorneys were informed. Sule clarified that Evans’ lawyer was based in Abuja and had been notified. However, the second defendant’s lawyer, Nelson Onyejiaka, confirmed the plea negotiations and his presence in court, leading to the request for a new date.

Justice Coker emphasized the necessity of Evans’ lawyer being present at the next hearing, setting the new date for June 13, when the court will address the plea bargain and proceed with the amended charges. The developments in this high-profile case continue to capture public attention, reflecting the complexities and legal maneuvers in Nigeria’s judicial system.