Five middle‑aged men have been remanded in Abakaliki Prison on charges of murder, armed robbery, and the unlawful possession of a firearm.
They are accused of robbing a truck valued at ₦39 million, belonging to Dr. Eni Uduma‑Chima, a former chairman of Edda Local Government Area and ex‑House of Assembly member.
Dr. Uduma‑Chima also currently serves as Chair of the Ebonyi State Fertilizer and Chemical Company Limited Board.
The suspects, named Amarachi Irem (27), Oledi Philip‑Nsi (26), Ogbu Nkama (22), Chibueze Nnachi (36), and Okoro Stanley Onuu (39), were arraigned today before Mrs. Sandra Onyibe at the Magistrate’s Court in Abakaliki.
According to the Police Prosecutor, Eze Ndubuaku, the offenses allegedly took place on July 9 at Ndienwuru village, Ekoli‑Edda Local Government Area of Ebonyi State.
The charges include four counts: conspiracy, murder, armed robbery, and unlawful possession of a firearm.
In addition, Oledi Philip‑Nsi faces a further charge of attempted murder for an incident allegedly occurring on June 1, 2025, involving Dr. Uduma‑Chima at Ekoli‑Edda.
The prosecutor also stated that one of their alleged victims, Udu Nnachi‑Orji (male), was shot and killed, in an act punishable under Section 319 of the Criminal Code, Cap. 33 Vol. 1, Laws of Ebonyi State, 2009.
The robbery of the truck, valued at ₦39 million, is said to contravene relevant provisions of the same code.
The defense counsel, Mr. Sunday Ajah, petitioned the court for bail for the accused.
However, Chief Magistrate Mrs. Sandra Onyibe refused the bail application, citing lack of jurisdiction to grant bail in this matter.
The case has been adjourned to October 2 for a report of compliance with procedural requirements.
