YENAGOA — Panic gripped the Bayelsa State High Court premises on Tuesday after a 50-year-old murder suspect, Bethlehem Nwanlia, tragically slumped and died.
Nwanlia collapsed in the holding area of Court 11 just moments after Justice Amadise Michael Ekadi adjourned judgment in his high-profile trial to October 27, 2026.
The deceased, alongside two co-defendants, had been standing trial for conspiracy, kidnapping, and the 2022 multiple murders of three individuals—including a traditional ruler—in the Kalaba community of Yenagoa Local Government Area. Sources indicated that Nwanlia had battled health complications while in custody prior to the fatal incident.
According to eyewitnesses, Nwanlia suddenly clutched his chest and fell unconscious. Alarmed security personnel from the Nigerian Correctional Service, police officers, and defense lawyers rushed to administer first aid, but their frantic revival efforts proved abortive.
A medical professional was immediately summoned to examine the scene, after which his remains were moved to the Federal Medical Centre (FMC) mortuary in Yenagoa.
Confirming the incident, the Public Relations Officer for the Bayelsa State Judiciary, Mr. Enoch Okunobo, expressed shock over the sudden development. Meanwhile, the state police command noted that formal inquiries were underway regarding the sudden death.
The unexpected turn of events has thrown court officials and families connected to the prolonged trial into deep confusion, leaving the legal proceedings regarding his portion of the case indefinitely halted.
Do you want to advertise with us?
Do you need publicity for a product, service, or event?
Contact us on WhatsApp +2348033617468, +234 816 612 1513, +234 703 010 7174
or Email: validviewnetwork@gmail.com
CLICK TO JOIN OUR WHATSAPP GROUP
