Lagos, Nigeria — In a dramatic twist to his long-running legal battles, convicted kidnap kingpin Chukwudumeme Onwuamadike, popularly known as Evans, is now seeking redemption and a second chance to positively influence society. His lawyer has urged the Lagos State Government to grant him pardon, citing his newfound religious conviction and educational pursuits while in custody.
During proceedings at the Ikeja High Court on Thursday, Justice Adenike Coker adjourned the case until March 20 to hear a plea bargain application filed by Evans and his co-defendant, Joseph Emeka. The two were re-arraigned on amended charges of murder, attempted murder, and conspiracy to commit kidnapping — allegations they both denied.
Evans’ counsel, Emefo Etudo, made a passionate appeal to the court, emphasizing his client’s transformation behind bars. He revealed that Evans, who was sentenced to life imprisonment for high-profile kidnappings, has embraced religion and education as pathways to rehabilitation.
According to Etudo, the Federal Government had already recognized Evans’ educational strides by awarding him a scholarship. He disclosed that Evans had earned a National Certificate in Education (NCE) and aspired to pursue a doctorate degree.
“Evans is now a changed man,” Etudo said. “He has embraced religion and education as tools for personal transformation. If given a second chance, he will use his experience to deter others from a life of crime and positively impact society. He is eager to be a living example of redemption and change.”
The plea bargain application, which is being reviewed by the Lagos State Attorney-General, was acknowledged by Justice Coker. The judge commended the defence for seeking a plea bargain, noting that it was a wise move given the extensive legal challenges Evans still faces.
State Counsel Yusuf Sule confirmed that the prosecution had no objection to the defendants’ further remand and that the plea bargain application was under consideration by the relevant committee.
Evans, once a dreaded figure known for orchestrating kidnappings and extorting hefty ransoms from his victims, now faces the prospect of spending the rest of his life in prison. In February 2022, he was sentenced to life imprisonment for kidnapping Chief Donatus Dunu, CEO of Maydon Pharmaceuticals Ltd. Later that year, he received another 21-year sentence for kidnapping businessman Chief Sylvanus Ahamonu and extorting $420,000 from his family.
Despite his past, Evans now hopes to become a voice for reform, urging young people to shun criminal activities. His lawyer’s plea for clemency is based on the argument that his experience and transformation could serve as a powerful tool for societal change.
Justice Coker adjourned the case until March 20 for further deliberation on the plea bargain application. Whether Evans’ claims of redemption will be enough to sway the authorities remains to be seen. However, his journey from infamy to repentance presents a curious narrative of crime, punishment, and the pursuit of redemption.
