Two Men Arraigned In Bayelsa High Court Over Alleged Conspiracy To Kidnap Governor Diri's Brother

Two persons have been arraigned in court by the Bayelsa State Police Command on charges of conspiracy and attempt to kidnap Mr. Ebi Ayama, popularly known as Americana.

Mr Ayama is a brother of the state governor, Senator Douye Diri.

The two suspects, identified as Lucky Oghenebrume, 53 and Omobowho Okpowodo, 52, were arrested by personnel of Operation Puff Adder in November 2023 at Mbiama community in Rivers State.

According to police authorities, the arrest of the suspects was achieved through intelligence gathering and detailed investigations.

The two suspects pleaded not guilty to the charges when arraigned at the Kaima High Court sitting in Yenagoa with suit numbered BYH/KHC/CR/2/2024.

The police prosecutor told the court that Oghenebrume was the mastermind and on the wanted list of the state police command over his alleged involvement in the abduction of one Fyneman in the Sagbama Local Government Area of the state. where a ransom of N50 million was paid.

Oghenebrume was also described as a resident of Mbiama community, who resides alone in a massive compound in which he allegedly commits crimes.

He was also reported to have relocated his family to Delta State to avoid being exposed.

The second suspect, Okpowodo, was identified as the owner of the motor mechanic workshop where the targeted victim carried out repairs on his vehicles.

According to the police prosecution, Okpowodo was overheard planning to abduct Mr. Ayama.

The Presiding Judge, Justice T. Songi adjourned the case till February 27, 2024.