Murder Suspect Bethlehem Nwanlia Dies in Bayelsa Court

On October 6, 2026, Bethlehem Nwanlia, a 50-year-old murder suspect, collapsed and died inside the Bayelsa State High Court in Yenagoa while awaiting judgment in a case involving the alleged murder of three individuals. Nwanlia was on trial with co-defendants Gideon Atama, 32, and Clever Ovo for conspiracy, kidnapping, and murder in connection with the deaths of Odeinyefa Ogbolosingha, an in-law to Bayelsa State Governor Douye Diri; Paramount Ruler Kolibo Francis Amabelimo; and Samuel Oburo.

The suspects were arrested in 2022 by police operatives from Operation Puff Adder, now known as the Violent Crime Response Unit, under the leadership of CSP Chris Nwaogbo. The case was being heard in Court 11, presided over by Justice Amadise Ekadi, who had scheduled the judgment for that day.

However, due to the judge's absence, the proceedings were adjourned to October 27, 2026. Following the adjournment announcement, Nwanlia clutched his chest, collapsed, and efforts to revive him were unsuccessful, leaving those present in shock.