In a dramatic twist to his legal battle, notorious kidnap kingpin, Chukwudumeme Onwamadike, also known as Evans, has reportedly offered to forfeit his property, including a fleet of 14 brand-new trucks, in a bid to regain his freedom. Evans, who has been imprisoned for his involvement in several high-profile kidnappings, is seeking leniency from the Lagos State Government as part of a plea bargain deal that could see him surrender all his assets in exchange for a reduced sentence or potential release.
The plea bargain was discussed during proceedings at the Lagos State High Court in Tafawa Balewa, Lagos, where Evans and his co-defendants, Joseph Emeka, Victor Aduba, and Linus Opara, face multiple charges including conspiracy, kidnapping, and attempted murder. These men have been at the center of one of the most infamous criminal syndicates in Nigeria, and their trial has attracted widespread attention.
In an unexpected move, Evans’ lawyer, Emefo Etudo, confirmed in court that the infamous kidnapper was willing to relinquish his 14 trucks, which he claimed to have obtained through proceeds from his criminal activities. “My client is willing to give up his property, including his fleet of trucks, as part of a larger effort to compensate his victims,” Etudo told the court. “He has expressed regret for his past actions and hopes that the state government will consider his plea for leniency.”
The trucks, which are valued at millions of naira, would be sold by the state government, and the proceeds would be used to compensate the victims who fell prey to Evans’ criminal operations. This offer is part of a broader plea deal that also involves surrendering other properties Evans holds, including houses and luxury vehicles.
Evans’ actions in the courtroom reveal his desperation to avoid the harshest penalties, but they are not without precedent. This marks the second time Evans has sought a plea bargain after facing criminal charges in various courts across Lagos. His first request, made before Justice Ibironke Coker at the Ikeja High Court, was aimed at reducing his sentence, but the negotiations did not yield any results at the time.
Yet, his latest attempt to cut a deal with the Lagos State Government appears more serious. Evans is reportedly making a compelling case for his release, citing significant changes he has undergone during his time in prison.
“My client has repented for his past actions,” Etudo asserted. “During his incarceration at Kirikiri Maximum Prison, he took part in numerous educational programs and vocational training initiatives. He now holds a National Certificate in Education (NCE) in Economics and is currently enrolled in Political Science at the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN).”
Indeed, Evans’ legal team submitted documents to the court showing that he had earned an NCE in Economics while incarcerated. Furthermore, he had completed a program in welding and metal fabrication, a vocational skill that could aid in his reintegration into society should he be granted early release.
Evans has also claimed that the Federal Government has extended mercy to him, including granting him a scholarship to continue his studies while in prison. In a touching statement, he expressed his desire to use his education and newly acquired skills for good. “Without the mercy of Lagos State, all my efforts will be in vain,” Evans said in court. “I’ve been forgiven by the Federal Government, but the Lagos State Government holds the key to my future.”
Despite these efforts to present himself as a reformed individual, Evans’ crimes remain severe. As the leader of one of Nigeria’s most feared criminal syndicates, he was responsible for a string of kidnappings that terrorized affluent Nigerians for years. His kidnappings often involved the wealthy, and he demanded massive ransoms for their release. His reign of terror led to the abduction and brutal treatment of several high-profile victims, many of whom feared for their lives.
As his case continues to unfold in the courtrooms of Lagos, Evans’ plea bargain may provide some insight into his future. However, Justice Sherifat Sonaike, who has been overseeing the trial since January 2023, was cautious in her remarks. “The court will review the plea bargain request in due course,” Justice Sonaike said. “But we must ensure that justice is served, and that the victims of these crimes are properly compensated.”
The trial, which had been delayed due to the retirement of Justice Adedayo Akintoye, is set to resume on April 17, 2025. At this point, the court will either proceed with a full trial or hear further arguments regarding the plea deal.
While Evans’ supporters maintain that he has turned a new leaf, others are skeptical of his motives. Critics argue that his request for leniency is merely a strategic move to reduce his sentence and avoid serving the full extent of his punishment.
The case has drawn the attention of many, not only for its high-profile nature but also because it raises important questions about the effectiveness of plea bargaining in the Nigerian criminal justice system. Some legal experts believe that Evans’ plea bargain could set a precedent for other high-profile criminals seeking leniency in exchange for restitution.
“It is clear that the plea bargain system has its flaws,” said an analyst, who requested anonymity. “While the system allows for some measure of justice for victims, it is often abused by criminals who are more interested in reducing their punishment than truly atoning for their crimes.”
As the case continues, many will be watching to see whether Evans truly deserves the mercy he seeks, or whether his offer to forfeit his wealth is a calculated attempt to escape the full consequences of his criminal actions.
