A 50-year-old murder suspect, Bethlehem Nwanlia, has died after reportedly collapsing at the Bayelsa State High Court in Yenagoa while awaiting judgment in a criminal case against him.

Nwanlia was standing trial alongside two other defendants, Gideon Atama and Clever Ovo, over allegations of conspiracy, kidnapping and the alleged murder of three people in Kalaba community, Yenagoa Local Government Area of Bayelsa State.

The incident occurred on Tuesday, October 6, at Court 11, shortly after Justice Amadise Michael Ekadi adjourned judgment in the matter to October 27, 2026. Reports said the adjournment was linked to the absence of the presiding judge.

According to reports from the court, Nwanlia suddenly complained of discomfort and clutched his chest before collapsing in the court’s holding area.

Correctional officers, police personnel and lawyers reportedly rushed to assist him, while medical personnel were subsequently called to examine him. He was later taken to a hospital, where his death was confirmed.

His remains were subsequently deposited at a mortuary in Yenagoa.

The incident reportedly caused confusion and concern among court officials, lawyers, security personnel and others present at the court.

Nwanlia and the two other defendants were being prosecuted in connection with the alleged 2022 killings of three people in Kalaba community. The victims were identified in reports as Odeinyefa Ogbolosingha, an in-law of Bayelsa State Governor Douye Diri; Paramount Ruler Kolibo Francis Amabelimo; and Samuel Oburo.

The three suspects were reportedly arrested by operatives of Operation Puff Adder, now known as the Violent Crime Response Unit.

Reports also indicated that Nwanlia had experienced health challenges while in custody, with some sources mentioning hypertension and stroke. However, no official medical statement had established the immediate cause of his death as of the time of the latest reports.

The death occurred before the court could deliver judgment in the case. Consequently, the allegations against Nwanlia were not finally determined by the court before his death.

The other defendants remain subject to the ongoing legal process, and Nwanlia's death should not be interpreted as a judicial determination of guilt or innocence.

The Bayelsa State Police Command was also contacted over the development. Police spokesperson DSP Musa Mohammed reportedly said he was initially unaware of the incident and would make inquiries.

As investigations and medical procedures continue, authorities are yet to publicly establish the precise cause of Nwanlia’s death.

Reporting by TalkNaijaMedia