Kehinde Fajobi
Convicted kidnap kingpin Chukwudumeme Onwuamadike, known as Evans, has applied for a plea bargain with the Lagos State government, offering full cooperation and surrendering his assets.
Justice Sherifat Sonaike of the Lagos High Court sitting in Tafawa Balewa Square on Thursday, February 20, adjourned the case setting April 17, 2025, for a report on the applications.
Evans’ co-defendants—Joseph Emeka, Victor Aduba, and Linus Opara—have also sought plea deals as they face charges of conspiracy, kidnapping, and attempted murder.
At the resumed hearing, prosecuting counsel Alaba Kuku informed the court that the defendants had shown interest in plea bargains.
He confirmed receiving an advance copy of Evans‘ application from his lawyer, Emefo Etudo, which is under review by the state government.
Other defence lawyers acknowledged their clients’ applications, except for the third defendant’s counsel, who had yet to submit his request.
Speaking to journalists after the hearing, Evans’ lawyer detailed his client’s efforts to rehabilitate himself and his appeal for mercy.
“The prosecution has acknowledged receipt of our plea bargain application, as well as those submitted by others,” Etudo said.
“Evans is remorseful and has demonstrated this through his plea bargain agreement. Embracing the federal government’s offer, he has undertaken educational programs within the maximum-security prison.”
According to Etudo, Evans has earned a Nigeria Certificate in Education (NCE) and is now in his second year at the National Open University, with ambitions to earn a Ph.D.
“The Ministry of Labour and Productivity has recognized his efforts within the prison, and the federal government continues to sponsor his education,” he added.
Etudo urged the Lagos State government to consider clemency, arguing that Evans’ transformation would be meaningless without forgiveness.
“We are appealing for leniency,” he said. “Evans has fully submitted himself to Lagos State’s authority, consenting to any decisions they deem appropriate regarding his person and assets.”
As part of his plea, Evans has surrendered his properties to aid his victims.
“He has handed over approximately 11 brand-new trailers used for haulage,” Etudo disclosed.
“The police have taken possession of these assets to liquidate them, transferring the proceeds to the Lagos State government for victim restitution.”
Etudo also revealed that Evans gave up ₦100 million, along with gold and diamonds, all now in police custody.
“Restitution is crucial; one cannot seek a second chance while retaining wealth as victims continue to suffer,” he stated.
He emphasised that Evans’ remorse and rehabilitation efforts set him apart from other defendants.
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“Initially, Evans and his former counsel were uncooperative,” he admitted.
“But the federal government gave him a chance to reform, and he is the only inmate certified to have genuinely changed.
“He voluntarily surrendered all his assets, even those unknown to authorities.”
He further stressed that Evans’ willingness to embrace education and personal reform should be considered in his plea.
“He is now a certified teacher,” Etudo said. “We urge Lagos State to grant him a second chance so he can guide young people away from crime and towards lawful living.”
The court is expected to rule on the plea bargain applications at the next hearing in April.