Murder Suspect Bethlehem Nwanlia Dies During Trial

Bethlehem Nwanlia, a 50-year-old murder suspect, died on October 6, 2026, after collapsing in the holding area of the High Court in Yenagoa. He was in Court 11 with two co-defendants, facing serious charges including conspiracy, kidnapping, and multiple murders linked to the deaths of three individuals in the Kalaba community, Yenagoa Local Government Area, in 2022.

The presiding judge, Justice Amadise Michael Ekadi, had just adjourned the case to October 27, 2026, when Nwanlia suddenly clutched his chest and fell. Despite attempts by police personnel and lawyers to revive him, he could not be saved.

A worker was later called to examine him, and his body was subsequently taken to a hospital for formal confirmation of death. Mr Enoch Okunobo, the Public Relations Officer for the Bayelsa State Judiciary, confirmed the incident.

Reports indicated that Nwanlia had prior health issues while in custody, but the official cause of death was not established at the time of reporting. The incident caused panic among those present in the court.