The trial of convicted millionaire kidnapper Chukwudumeme Onwuamadike, also known as Evans, was placed on hold on Tuesday in the Lagos High Court in Tafawa Balewa Square (TBS) because his lawyer wasn’t present.
On two different counts, Evans and his co-defendants Joseph Emeka, Victor Aduba, and Okpara Linus appeared before Justice Sherfiat Sonaike. Following the transfer of the case from Justice Adedayo Akintoye to Justice Sonaike, they were to be re-arraigned on the charges.
The Lagos State Government has filed five charges against the defendants that relate to kidnapping, attempted murder, and conspiracy to kidnap.
The offences contrary to Section 411 Criminal Laws Cap C 17, Vol 13, of Lagos State 2015, kidnapping contrary to Section 271 (3) and Section 230 (a) Cap C17, of the Criminal Laws of Lagos state 2015.
At the proceedings on Tuesday, the state prosecuting counsel, Olanrewaju Olayemi announced his appearance but counsel for Evans and counsel for two of the other defendants were absent. This effectively stalled the re-arraignment.
Further hearing in the matter has been adjourned by Justice Sonaike till January 26, 2023 for the re-arraignment of the defendants.