Murder suspect slumps, dies inside courtroom

A 50-year-old murder suspect, Bethlehem Nwanlia, on Tuesday slumped and died at the Bayelsa State High Court in Yenagoa.

Mr Nwanlia was awaiting judgement in a case involving conspiracy, kidnapping and the alleged murder of three people in Kalaba community in Bayelsa.

He was standing trial alongside 32-year-old Gideon Atama and Clever Ovo over the alleged murders in Yenagoa Local Government Area.

The victims were identified as Odeinyefa Ogbolosingha, an in-law to Governor Douye Diri of Bayelsa, Paramount Ruler Kolibo Francis Amabelimo and Samuel Oburo.

The suspects were arrested in 2022 by operatives of Police Operation Puff Adder, now known as the Violent Crime Response Unit.

The operation was led by Chris Nwaogbo, a chief superintendent of police.

Mr Nwanlia reportedly developed health complications, including hypertension and stroke, while in custody at the Osaka Medium Correctional Centre, Yenagoa.

He reportedly slumped shortly after the court adjourned judgement in the case to 27 October, 2026, following the judge’s absence.

Mr Nwanlia collapsed at Court 11, presided over by Justice Amadise Ekadi.

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A court registry official who witnessed the incident told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) that Mr Nwanlia suddenly clutched his chest and became unconscious.

“Immediately the adjournment was announced, one of the suspects clutched his chest, slumped and died,” the source said.

NAN learnt that efforts by those around him to revive him were unsuccessful.

Correctional centre officers, police personnel and lawyers were stunned by the development, while medical personnel were invited to ascertain his condition.

Mr Nwanlia was subsequently taken to a hospital for further medical examination and confirmation of his death.