The re-arraignment of convicted billionaire kidnapper, Chukwudumeme Onwuamadike, popularly known as Evans, was stalled on Thursday due to the absence of his legal counsel at the Lagos State High Court sitting before Justice Adenike Coker.
Evans, who is facing an amended five-count charge that includes murder, attempted murder, conspiracy, and kidnapping, appeared in court alongside his co-defendant, Joseph Emeka.
However, when asked by Justice Coker about the whereabouts of his lawyer, Evans simply stated that he was unsure of his counsel’s attendance.
Counsel for the second defendant, Nelson Onyejaka, informed the court that he had made several unsuccessful attempts to contact Evans’ lawyer.
“My Lord, I tried his number and it’s not going through. Even this morning, I tried again, but he’s not based in Lagos,” Onyejaka said.
The State Prosecutor, Yusuf Sule, expressed frustration over the repeated delays caused by the absence of Evans’ legal representation. Sule urged the court to consider measures to prevent further disruptions.
“This case has been ongoing since 2017, and the first defendant has consistently delayed proceedings. It is high time he either briefs another lawyer or secures one in Lagos to allow this matter to proceed,” Sule remarked.
Sule also revealed that Evans had previously applied for a plea bargain but questioned whether he was still interested in pursuing that course of action.
In response, Justice Coker directed the prosecution to ensure that the Office of the Public Defender is present at the next hearing to provide legal representation for Evans if his counsel fails to appear again.
“OPD can represent the first defendant if his counsel is not present in court because the arraignment must go on at the next date of adjournment,” the judge ordered.
The case was adjourned to January 30, 2025, for re-arraignment. Justice Coker also instructed Evans to ensure that his lawyer attends the next court session to avoid further delays in the proceedings.
Evans and his co-defendant are accused of masterminding a series of high-profile kidnappings, and the case has drawn significant public attention since it first came to light in 2017.
The protracted legal battle has been marked by repeated adjournments and delays, sparking calls for a swift resolution to the matter.
