Five suspects have been arraigned before an Abakaliki Magistrates’ Court in Ebonyi State over the alleged murder of a businessman and armed robbery of a truck worth ₦39 million, belonging to Dr. Eni Uduma-Chima.
The accused persons are identified as Amarachi Irem (27), Oledi Philip-Nsi (26), Ogbu Nkama (22), Chibueze Nnachi (36), and Okoro Stanley Onuu (39). They face a four-count charge bordering on conspiracy, armed robbery, unlawful possession of firearms, and murder.
Police Prosecutor, Eze Ndubuaku, told the court that the offences were committed on July 9 at Ndienworo village, Ekoli-Edda, Afikpo South LGA of Ebonyi State. One of the defendants, Oledi Philip-Nsi, was additionally charged with attempted murder of Dr. Eni Uduma-Chima on June 1, 2025.
According to the charge, the suspects allegedly shot and killed Udu Nnachi-Orji before carting away the ₦39 million truck, an offence punishable under Sections 324 and 319 of the Criminal Code Cap 33 Vol. 1 Laws of Ebonyi State 2009.
Defense counsel, Sunday Ajah, pleaded with the court to grant the defendants bail. However, Chief Magistrate Sandra Onyibe dismissed the application, stressing that the court lacked jurisdiction to grant bail in such capital offences. The case was adjourned to October 2, 2025, for further hearing.
Meanwhile, elders of Ekoli-Edda community praised the professionalism of the Ebonyi State Police Command under CP Adaku Uche-Anya for resisting political pressure and ensuring justice over the community crisis.
Community leader, Etta Egor, said:
“We commend the CP and her team for handling this case professionally. Although some suspects remain at large, we are confident they will be apprehended. At least peace and calm have returned to Ekoli-Edda since the arrests began.”
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