Murder suspect dies in Bayelsa court before judgment

Nathan Tamarapreye, Yenagoa

A 50-year-old murder suspect, Bethlehem Nwanlia, collapsed and died at the Bayelsa State High Court in Yenagoa on Tuesday while awaiting judgment in a case involving conspiracy, kidnapping and multiple murder.

Nwanlia reportedly slumped shortly after Justice Amadise Michael Ekadi adjourned the case for judgment until October 27, 2026.

The suspect collapsed in the court’s holding area after reportedly clutching his chest and becoming unconscious.

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

Correctional officers, police personnel and lawyers reportedly made efforts to revive him, but were unsuccessful. A medical practitioner was subsequently invited to examine him before he was taken to hospital for further medical confirmation.

Nwanlia was standing trial alongside Gideon Atama, 32, and Clever Ovo over the alleged 2022 murders of Odeinyefa Ogbolosingha, an in-law of Bayelsa State Governor Douye Diri; Paramount Ruler Kolibo Francis Amabelimo; and Samuel Oburo.

The victims were allegedly killed in Kalaba community, Yenagoa Local Government Area of the state.

The three defendants were arrested by police operatives attached to Operation Puff Adder, now known as the Violent Crime Response Unit, under the leadership of CSP Chris Nwaogbo.

Nwanlia was also reported to have developed health complications, including high blood pressure and a stroke, while being held at the Medium Correctional Centre, Okaka.

His death caused confusion at the court premises as correctional officers, police personnel, lawyers and other people present watched efforts to revive him.

The incident occurred as the court was preparing to conclude proceedings in the case and set a date for judgment.

As of the time of filing this report, authorities had not issued an official statement confirming the circumstances surrounding Nwanlia’s death.