By George Omagbemi
YENAGOA — October 6, 2026: A 50-year-old murder suspect, Bethlehem Nwanlia, has died after reportedly slumping inside the Bayelsa State High Court in Yenagoa while awaiting judgment in a case involving alleged conspiracy, kidnapping and the deaths of three people.
Nwanlia was standing trial alongside Gideon Atama, 32, and Clever Ovo over the alleged 2022 killings of Odeinyefa Ogbolosingha, an in-law of Bayelsa State Governor Douye Diri; Paramount Ruler Kolibo Francis Amabelimo; and Samuel Oburo in Kalaba community, Yenagoa Local Government Area.
According to reports, the court had been expected to deliver judgment, but proceedings were adjourned to October 27, 2026, following the absence of the presiding judge.
Shortly after the adjournment was announced, Nwanlia reportedly clutched his chest, slumped and became unconscious.
Efforts by correctional officers, police personnel and others present at the court to revive him were reportedly unsuccessful. He was subsequently taken to a hospital for medical examination, where his death was confirmed.
Nwanlia was said to have developed health complications, including hypertension and stroke, while in custody at the Medium Security Custodial Centre in Yenagoa.
The suspects were arrested in connection with the 2022 killings by operatives of Operation Puff Adder, now known as the Violent Crime Response Unit.
The death means Nwanlia will no longer face judgment in the case against him. The allegations against him, however, had not been established by a court before his death.
The incident caused confusion and concern among lawyers, security personnel and others at the court as the proceedings came to an abrupt end.
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