Widely known as Evans, the convicted kidnap kingpin, appeared before the Lagos State High Court in Ikeja on Thursday, expressing his remorse for past criminal activities and requesting clemency from the Lagos State Government. He conveyed this message to the court through his attorney, Emefo Etudo, following his plea on revised charges that include murder, attempted murder, and conspiracy to commit kidnapping.
Upon the court’s session, prosecutor Sule Yusuf announced that the trial would commence anew, requesting the court to re-arraign the defendants. Both Etudo and his co-defendant’s counsel, C.N Udeh, did not oppose this motion.
The prosecution alleges that on August 27, 2013, at approximately 10 p.m., in FESTAC Town, Lagos, Evans and his accomplice, Joseph Emeka, were involved in the murder of one Peter Nweke. They are also charged with the killing of another individual, Chijioke Ngozi, on the same date. Both Evans and Emeka pleaded not guilty to the allegations.
In light of their not-guilty pleas, the prosecution requested that the court continue to detain the defendants. However, it was noted that Evans had submitted an application for a plea bargain, which his attorney, Etudo, confirmed. He stated that his client has reached out to the Lagos State Government through the Attorney-General’s office in relation to this plea.
Emefo Etudo said, “Our primary concern is the plea bargain we have put forward to the state. My client has transformed and is genuinely repentant. He was previously involved in crime as a young man, but that is no longer the case. He is currently a 200-level student at the National Open University. In fact, he excelled in all his NECO examinations while incarcerated, thanks to a scholarship provided by the Federal Government.”
Etudo added that Evans has expressed a desire to visit schools in Lagos to educate young people about the perils associated with crime.
Prosecutor Sule confirmed receipt of Evans’ plea bargain application and indicated that it would be reviewed by the relevant committee. He remarked, “My Lord, I can affirm that the first defendant (Evans) has indeed applied for a plea bargain, which has been shared with us for consideration. The second defendant has submitted a similar request.”
Following these discussions, Justice Adenike Coker adjourned the court proceedings until March 20, 2025, when a possible trial will take place. Speaking to reporters after the hearing, Etudo emphasized the significant positive changes in his client’s life, attributing his progress to the Redeemed Christian Church of God and the scholarship assistance from the Federal Government.
Etudo stated, “My client is now a changed individual. His transformation was facilitated by the RCCG and the Federal Government, paving the way for him to pursue education and turn his life around.”
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