The Lagos State Government on Monday re-arraigned convicted billionaire kidnapper Chukwudumeme Onwuamadike, popularly known as Evans, before the Ikeja High Court on fresh charges of murder involving two police officers.
Evans, once feared as one of Nigeria’s most notorious kidnappers, appeared in court alongside another defendant to answer the new allegations.
Both men pleaded not guilty to the charges when they were read before the presiding judge.
According to the state prosecution, the charges stem from investigations linking Evans to the killings of the two officers during operations tied to his previous kidnap-for-ransom cases.
The state said the murders were part of the broader criminal enterprise that terrorized Lagos and surrounding states before his arrest in 2017.
The latest development adds to a growing list of cases against the convicted kidnapper, who is already facing five separate criminal trials for kidnapping, conspiracy, and murder.
He has already been convicted in two cases and is currently serving multiple prison sentences.
Evans first gained national infamy in 2017 after a long manhunt by the Nigerian Police led to his dramatic arrest in Lagos.
Described as a billionaire kidnapper, Evans was accused of orchestrating a network of abductions targeting wealthy individuals, business executives, and expatriates.
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His ransom demands, often running into millions of naira and dollars, shocked Nigerians and drew global media attention.
Since his arrest, he has faced a series of prosecutions led by the Lagos State Government, with several witnesses—including victims—testifying about the brutality and precision of his kidnapping operations.
Monday’s re-arraignment signals the government’s determination to ensure full accountability for crimes tied to Evans’ operations, especially those involving the deaths of law enforcement officers.
The court has adjourned the matter for the continuation of hearing as both sides prepare to present their cases.
Meanwhile, state prosecutors have reaffirmed their resolve to pursue justice for victims and uphold public safety.
Evans’ previous trials, marked by high public interest, have often been characterized by tight security around the court premises. His re-arraignment comes amid renewed efforts by the Lagos judiciary to accelerate high-profile criminal cases.
Details of the fresh trial and the identities of the slain officers are expected to be revealed in subsequent court proceedings.
Frank Talk
