Chukwudimeme Onwuamadike, known as Evans, a convicted kidnap kingpin, has recently applied for a plea bargain with the Lagos State Government as his prolonged trial continues. This development came during his re-arraignment at the High Court in Ikeja, where he faced five amended charges including murder, attempted murder, and conspiracy to commit kidnapping.
Evans, who was once notorious for his leadership of a criminal kidnapping syndicate, now claims to have reformed. His lawyer, Emefo Etudo, told the court that Evans is no longer the young man consumed by crime, and he expressed his remorse for his past actions. Etudo also revealed that Evans is currently a 200-level student at the National Open University and recently achieved top marks in the NECO exams, all while incarcerated, thanks to a scholarship from the Federal Government. As part of his rehabilitation, Evans reportedly hopes to visit schools across Lagos to educate youths about the dangers of crime.
The charges against Evans and his co-defendant, Joseph Emeka, are serious, including the alleged murder of Peter Nweke and Chijioke Ngozi on August 27, 2013. The prosecution confirmed that Evans and Emeka had pleaded not guilty to the charges.
Both defendants have applied for a plea bargain, and their lawyers have formally submitted this request to the Lagos State Government through the office of the Attorney-General. The prosecution confirmed the receipt of this application and noted that it will be considered by the appropriate committee.
Justice Adenike Coker adjourned the case to March 20, 2025, to allow time for the government to review the plea bargain requests and for a possible trial to take place. After the proceedings, Evans’ lawyer emphasized that his client has undergone significant personal transformation, which he attributed to support from the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) and the Federal Government’s educational initiatives.
The plea bargain and the ongoing reformation efforts could potentially play a significant role in how the case proceeds, and the legal community is closely watching the outcome of the application.