Evans’ co-defendant in kidnap trial dies of AIDS

Chiemeka Arinze, one of the co-defendants standing trial alongside Chukwudimeme Onwuamadike, suspected kidnap kingpin better known as Evans (pictured), has died in the custody of the correctional services.

Arinze was charged before Oluwatoyin Taiwo, judge of an Ikeja special offences court, alongside Evans, Joseph Ikenna Emeka and Udeme Frank Upong, on a seven-count charge of murder, conspiracy to kidnap and selling of firearms.

They were alleged to have attempted the kidnapping of Vincent Obianodo, chairman of the Young Shall Grow Motors.

According to the death certificate seen by the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), Arinze passed away at 9.08 pm on November 26 as a result of cardiopulmonary arrest caused by AIDS.

Arinze was said to have been taken from the hospital of Kirikiri Maximum Correctional Centre to a general hospital on Friday where he passed away.

The death certificate signed by B.E Salisu, doctor at Ajeromi General Hospital, Ajegunle indicated that the 45-year-old was also suffering from HIV/AIDS.

The suspects were to appear before the court on Monday for continuation of trial.

NAN reports that Ogedi Ogu, counsel to the deceased, is in court for the hearing.

Ogu said he intends to inform the court of his client’s demise and apply to withdraw from the case.