Suspected killer of Governor Diri’s in law dies in Bayelsa court

YENAGOA: A 50 year old murder suspect, Bethlehem Nwanlia, has slumped and died while awaiting final judgment in a case involving alleged conspiracy, kidnapping and multiple murders before the Bayelsa State High Court.

Nwanlia reportedly collapsed on Tuesday while at the court premises in Yenagoa, throwing the proceedings into confusion.

He was standing trial alongside 32 year old Gideon Atama and Clever Ovo over the 2022 murders of Odeinyefa Ogbolosingha, an in law to Bayelsa State Governor Douye Diri, Paramount Ruler Kolibo Francis Amabelimo and Samuel Oburo in Kalaba community, Yenagoa Local Government Area.

The suspects were arrested by police operatives attached to Operation Puff Adder, now known as the Violent Crime Response Unit, led by CSP Chris Nwaogbo.

According to prison sources, Nwanlia had reportedly developed health complications, including high blood pressure and stroke, while in custody at the Medium Correctional Centre, Okaka.

Eyewitnesses at the court said the incident occurred after the court clerk announced that judgment had been adjourned to October 27, 2026, due to the absence of the judge.

Nwanlia reportedly clutched his chest and suddenly slumped.

Efforts by those present to revive him were reportedly unsuccessful.

Men of the Nigeria Correctional Service, police officers and lawyers at the court were said to have been left stunned by the incident.

His death is expected to be formally documented as the court proceedings and the cases against the other defendants continue.