Lagos: Evans, three accomplices re-arraigned for kidnapping, attempted murder

The convicted billionaire kidnap kingpin Chukwudumeme Onwuamadike, popularly known, as Evans, was yesterday, re-arraigned before a Lagos High Court sitting in Tafawa Balewa Square (TBS), Lagos, for alleged kidnapping and attempted murder.

Evans was re-arraigned by Lagos State government, along with three others: Joseph Emeka, Victor Aduba and Okapara Linus before Justice Ibironke Harrison.

The defendants were re-arraigned on five-count charge bordering on conspiracy, kidnapping and attempted murder. Their re-arraignment followed the transfer of their case file from Justice Akintoye Adedayo, who was initially handling the case to Justice Harrison to commence the trial afresh.

Evans and his co-defendants and others at large were accused of kidnapping Chief James Uduji and collecting a ransom of $1.2million on September 7, 2015 at 7th Avenue, Festac Town, Lagos.

Their offences contravened Sections 411, 271 (3) and 230 (A) , of the criminal laws of Lagos State 2015. The defendants were also accused of attempted murder by firing shots at Uduji, and Donatus Nwoye, hitting him on the hand, as well as shooting one Mr. Jereome Okezie on the hand and head.

When the matter came up the defendants pleaded not guilty to the charges preferred against them. Justice Harrison subsequently adjourned trial to May 3 and 4, 2023.

During the re-arraignment, the state counsel, Mr. H. Owokoniran, announced his appearance for the prosecution, while Mr. Nelson Onyejiaka, held the brief of Evans’ counsel, who was absent and also appeared for the 2nd defendant. Also, Mr. A. K. Orajiuka, announced his appearance for the 3rd defendant, while Mr. Emmanuel Ochai appeared for the 4th defendant.