Okay News reports that the Lagos State Government has re-arraigned convicted billionaire kidnapper, Chukwudumeme Onwuamadike, popularly known as Evans, before the Lagos High Court sitting in Ikeja on fresh charges related to the murder of two police officers.
Evans, alongside his co-defendant Joseph Emeka, appeared on Monday before Justice A.O. Ogala to face a five-count charge bordering on murder, attempted murder, and conspiracy to commit kidnapping.
According to court documents, the charges stem from alleged incidents connected to the killing of two police officers during one of Evans’ high-profile kidnapping operations. The state’s legal team, led by the Lagos Directorate of Public Prosecutions, presented the charges as part of renewed efforts to ensure accountability for crimes linked to the notorious kidnapper.
Both defendants pleaded not guilty to all charges when read to them in court. The case marks a continuation of the Lagos State Government’s long-running judicial process against Evans, who was earlier convicted in a separate kidnapping case and sentenced to life imprisonment.
The Monday proceeding represents a fresh phase in the state’s determination to secure justice for law enforcement officers allegedly killed in the line of duty. Legal observers note that re-arraignment in such cases is a procedural step often taken when new evidence or additional charges emerge during investigation or prosecution reviews.
Evans, once known for orchestrating multimillion-naira ransom kidnappings targeting businessmen and public figures across Nigeria, has remained a central figure in the nation’s criminal justice system. His previous convictions in Lagos and pending cases in other jurisdictions underscore the gravity of his alleged crimes and the government’s continued interest in bringing closure to all pending matters.
While the prosecution is expected to present witnesses and forensic evidence in subsequent hearings, Justice Ogala has directed that the defendants remain in custody pending trial. The court adjourned the matter to a later date for continuation of proceedings.
Legal experts believe that the outcome of this case could further reinforce Lagos State’s stance on high-profile criminal accountability and underscore the judiciary’s role in upholding the rule of law, regardless of a defendant’s notoriety or past convictions.
