The convicted billionaire kidnap kingpin, Chukwudumeme Onwuamadike alias Evans has started afresh over alleged kidnapping and attempted murder of Chief James Uduji before a Lagos State High Court sitting in Tafawa Balewa Square.
Evans was re-arraigned alongside Joseph Emeka, Victor Aduba and Okapara Linus before Justice Ibironke Harrison.
They are facing five count charges bordering on conspiracy, kidnapping, and attempted murder, preferred against them by Lagos State.
The case started afresh after the case file was transferred from Justice Adedayo Akintoye the initial trial judge.
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Evans and his co-defendants, were arraigned for allegedly kidnapping Chief James Uduji and collecting a ransom of $1.2m dollars.
They, and others at large, allegedly committed the offence on September 7, 2015 at 7th Avenue, Festac Town, Lagos.
The defendants were also accused of attempted murder by allegedly firing shots at Uduji, and Donatus Nwoye which hit him on the hand and again shot one Mr. Jereome Okezie on the hand and head.
When the matter came up for re-arraignmemt, Mr H. Owokoniran announced his appearance for prosecution, while Mr Nelson Onyejiaka held the brief of Evans lawyer who was absent and also appeared for the 2nd defendant.
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Mr A. K. Orajiuka, appeared for the 3rd defendant, while Mr Emmanuel Ochai appeared for the 4th defendant.
According to the prosecution the offences committed contravened Sections 411, 271 (3) and 230 (A) , of the criminal laws of Lagos state 2015.
However the defendants pleaded not guilty to the charges against them.
The case was adjourned till May 3 and 4, 2023 for trial.
