Convicted Kidnap Kingpin Evans Seeks Plea Bargain, Offers Property Forfeiture
Chukwudumeme Onwuamadike, infamously known as Evans, has proposed a plea bargain to the Lagos State High Court at Tafawa Balewa Square, expressing willingness to surrender all his assets in exchange for leniency. Represented by his attorney, Mr. Etudo Emefo, Evans conveyed remorse for his past actions and detailed his rehabilitation efforts during incarceration.
In his submission, Evans highlighted his transformation while at Kirikiri Maximum Prison. He disclosed that he obtained a National Certificate in Education (NCE) in Economics from Yewa College of Education and has since been serving as an instructor within the correctional facility. Evans emphasized that he no longer identifies as a criminal and is committed to contributing positively to society.
As part of the proposed plea agreement, Evans has pledged to forfeit 14 brand-new trucks to the Lagos State Government. The proceeds from the sale of these vehicles are intended to compensate victims of his previous criminal activities. Evans also revealed that he is currently a second-year Political Science student at the National Open University of Nigeria, benefiting from a Federal Government scholarship aimed at inmate rehabilitation. He argued that without the court’s compassion, his educational pursuits and acquired skills would be in vain, rendering the government’s investment in his rehabilitation futile.
During the recent court session, prosecuting counsel Alaba Kuku acknowledged receipt of Evans’ plea bargain application. The application is presently under review by the state government. Justice Sherifat Sonaike has adjourned the case to March 20, 2025, to allow for thorough consideration of the plea proposal.
Evans’ case has been a focal point in discussions about kidnapping and criminal justice in Nigeria. In February 2022, he received a life sentence for the abduction of Donatus Dunu, CEO of Maydon Pharmaceuticals Ltd. Subsequently, in September 2022, he was sentenced to 21 years for kidnapping businessman Sylvanus Ahamonu and extorting $420,000 in ransom. The current proceedings involve additional charges, including murder and attempted kidnapping.
The Lagos State Government faces a critical decision regarding the acceptance of Evans’ plea bargain, weighing the potential benefits of his rehabilitation and restitution against the severity of his crimes. This case continues to evoke strong public interest and debate over the balance between justice and mercy in the Nigerian legal system.