The Bayelsa State Government is set to arraign five suspects accused in connection with the killing of a 42-year-old estate agent, Richard Ekpebu. The suspects are expected to appear before Justice Raphael Ajuwa of State High Court 5 in Yenagoa under suit number BYHC/YHC/CR/19/2026.Ekpebu was reported missing in July 2025. Authorities later discovered his body in a bush along the New Otuoke Road near Bayelsa Palm.
Investigators said the case was linked to a disputed land transaction.Police operatives from Operation Puff Adder, a tactical unit led by CSP Chris Nwaogbo, arrested the suspects following investigations conducted in Lagos, Port Harcourt and Yenagoa.Those listed for arraignment include George Idumange, Henry Victory Bernard, Ekiamene Amaoniye Alex, Imaremi Gold Ibo, Queen Felix and Henry Igwe.
According to the charge sheet, the defendants are expected to face several counts including conspiracy to kidnap, kidnapping, armed robbery, conspiracy to commit murder, murder, and alleged attempts to destroy evidence.
One of the suspects, Ekiamene Amaoniye Alex, is also accused of illegal possession of a firearm. Authorities said investigations are ongoing regarding claims about his employment status with the Nigerian Correctional Service.Another defendant, Queen Felix, faces additional allegations relating to the alleged presentation of a forged land document during police investigations.The case is being prosecuted by the Bayelsa State Directorate of Public Prosecutions led by Barrister Peretimi Judith Peterside.
