In a recent ruling, the Bayelsa State High Court situated in Ogbia Local Government Council Area has sentenced four men to 40 years each in prison for the abduction of Hon. Federal Otokito, the Former Commissioner for Trade and Investment in Bayelsa State. The judgment was delivered by Justice S.W. Amaduobogha in case number OHC/4c/2022. The court found Kingsley Obhesi (24 years old), Joshua Abi (32 years old), Gift Damene (38 years old), and Powell Inegite (36 years old) guilty of conspiracy, kidnapping, and illegal possession of firearms.
The arrests were made by officers from Operation Puff Adder under the leadership of Supol Chris Nwaogbo. These individuals were reportedly associated with a prominent former militant leader from Southern Ijaw Local Government Area, who is currently wanted by the Nigerian Army.
During the court proceedings, Police Prosecuting Counsel Stella Jerry-Friday emphasized that the convicted individuals used advanced firearms and offensive weapons to forcibly transport Federal Oparminola Otokito to the Igbomotoru bush in Southern Ijaw, intending to extort ransom or other unlawful gains.
Justice S.W. Amaduobogha acknowledged the thoroughness of the investigative and prosecutorial efforts, confirming beyond doubt the charges of conspiracy, kidnapping, and possession of illegal firearms against the accused.
Members of the Otuokpoti community, where Otokito originates, have expressed appreciation to the Bayelsa Police Command, particularly the Operation Puff Adder team led by Supol Nwaogbo, for their meticulous investigation and effective prosecution in the case.
