Two Suspects Arraigned for Alleged Plot to Kidnap Governor Diri’s Brother

In a development that has sent shockwaves through Bayelsa State, two individuals were brought before the Kaima High Court in Yenagoa, facing charges of conspiracy and attempted kidnapping of Mr. Ebi Ayama, also known as Americana and the brother of Governor Douye Diri.

The suspects, identified as Lucky Oghenebrume, aged 53, and Omobowho Okpowodo, aged 52, were apprehended by the vigilant operatives of the Operation Puff Adder unit in November 2023 at Mbiama community in Rivers State. Their arrest followed thorough intelligence gathering and meticulous investigations.

During their appearance in court, both Oghenebrume and Okpowodo pleaded not guilty to the charges leveled against them. However, according to the police prosecutor, Oghenebrume was allegedly the mastermind behind the plot and had been on the wanted list of the State Police Command for his purported involvement in the abduction of an individual named Fyneman in Sagbama, where a ransom of N50 million was reportedly paid. It was further revealed that Oghenebrume had relocated his family to Delta State in an attempt to evade arrest and detection.

The second suspect, Omobowho Okpowodo, was implicated as the owner of a motor mechanic workshop where the targeted victim, Ayama, frequented for vehicle repairs. It was alleged that Okpowodo was overheard discussing plans to abduct Ayama as he traveled from Ekeremor Local Government Area.

Presiding over the case, Justice Timipre Songi adjourned proceedings until February 27 to allow for further deliberation and legal proceedings.