Court sentences two to death by hanging for 2022 killing of Diri’s in-law, two others

From Femi Folaranmi, Yenagoa

A Bayelsa State High Court has sentenced two persons to death by hanging over their involvement in the 2022 killing of a relative of Bayelsa State Governor Douye Diri, Odeinyefa Ogbolosingha, the Paramount Ruler of Kalaba community, Kolibo Francis Amabelimo, and the CDC Chairman of Kalaba community, Samuel Oburo, in Kalaba community, Yenagoa Local Government Area of the state.

The two suspects, Gideon Atama, 32, and Clever OVO, 33, were arrested by the Police Investigation team attached to the Violent Crime Response Unit (formerly Operation Puff Adder), led by CSP Chris Nwaogbo. They were charged with conspiracy, kidnapping, murder and attempted murder in suit number BYHC/YHC/CR/32/2025.

One of the accused persons, Bethlehem Nwanlia, 50, slumped and died inside the State High Court premises on October 27 while awaiting ruling on the matter.

He died of health complications from high blood pressure and stroke, which were reportedly developed while in custody at the Okaka Medium Correctional Centre.

The Presiding Judge, Justice Michael Amadise Ekade, after listening to the thorough case presented against the accused, convicted and sentenced them to death by hanging.

Some family members of the deceased victims expressed appreciation to the police and the state government, through the State Ministry of Justice, for the quick arrest and diligent investigation and prosecution.