This marks the second time Evans has sought a plea bargain, following a previous request before Justice Adenike Coker of the Ikeja High Court on January 30, 2025.
Lagos, Nigeria – Convicted billionaire kidnapper, Chukwudumeme Onwuamadike, popularly known as Evans, has informed the Lagos State High Court that he has reformed and is now a teacher at the Kirikiri Correctional Centre after earning a diploma in economics.
Appearing before Justice Sherifat Sonaike at the Tafawa Balewa Square, Evans revealed that he had obtained a National Certificate in Education (NCE) in Economics from Yewa College of Education while serving his prison sentence. He also disclosed that he is currently pursuing a degree in Political Science at the National Open University of Nigeria under a Federal Government scholarship.
Plea for Mercy and Property Forfeiture
As part of a plea bargain request, Evans has pledged to surrender 14 brand-new trucks to the Lagos State Government, with proceeds from their sale intended as compensation for his victims. His lawyer, Mr. Etudo Emefo, presented the plea before the court, emphasizing his client’s remorse and transformation.
Evans, who is serving both a life sentence and a 14-year prison term from previous convictions, urged the Lagos State Government for clemency, arguing that without their forgiveness, his educational achievements would be meaningless. He further highlighted that he had undergone training in welding and metal fabrication, passing all required tests under the Federal Ministry of Labour and Productivity.
Legal Proceedings and Adjournment
During Thursday’s court session, prosecuting counsel Alaba Kuku confirmed that Evans and his co-defendants—Joseph Emeka, Victor Aduba, and Linus Opara—had submitted plea bargain applications to the Lagos State Government.
Counsel for the co-defendants, including Emeka Azubuike, Chinyere Udeh, and Emmanuel Ochai, acknowledged the ongoing plea discussions. However, Udeh, representing the third defendant, stated that he had not yet filed his client’s application.
Justice Sonaike adjourned the case to April 17, 2025, to allow time for the state government to review the plea bargain applications.
This marks the second time Evans has sought a plea bargain, following a previous request before Justice Adenike Coker of the Ikeja High Court on January 30, 2025.
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