Absence of counsel halts resumption of Evans trial

The resumption of the trial of convicted Chukwudumeme Onwuamadike, a billionaire kidnapper known as Evans, at the Lagos High Court sitting at the Tafawa Balewa Square (TBS), was on Tuesday halted because of the absence of his counsel. Evans and the co-defendants, Joseph Emeka, Victor Aduba and Okpara Linus, were to be arraigned before Justice Sherfiat Sonaike on two separate charges, after the case was transferred from Justice Adedayo Akintoye to Justice Sonaike.

They are facing  five count charges of conspiracy to kidnap, kidnapping, and attempted murder, raised against them by Lagos State Government.

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.

The prosecuting counsel, Olanrewaju Olayemi, at the resumed sitting on Tuesday,  announced his appearance but counsel to Evans and counsel for two of the other defendants were absent.

The presiding judge, therefore, adjourned the case to January 26, 2023 for re-arraignment of Evans and others.