Three Arraigned Over Disappearance of Anambra Billionaire BigBen

Three individuals have been arraigned before the Awka High Court in Anambra State over the disappearance of billionaire businessman Benjamin Ezemma, popularly known as BigBen. Ezemma, co-founder of Dubai Estate in Anambra, has been missing since November 12, 2024.

The defendants, identified as Ozo Jeff Nweke, Nwokoye Tochukwu, and David Chukwuemeka, were charged under suit number AWK/6c/2025. They faced a two-count charge of conspiracy to kidnap and abduction. All three pleaded not guilty before Justice Ike Ogu.

Ozo Nweke, a well-known figure in Awka, was represented by Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) Alex Ajesieme, while OL Udemezue and AO Onyekachi represented the second and third defendants, respectively. A deputy director from the Ministry of Justice led the prosecution.

The first defendant appeared in court after being brought from a hospital in Enugu, while the second defendant has been in detention since November 2024. The third defendant remains at large. The prosecution sought permission to engage a private doctor to evaluate the first defendant’s health, while the second defendant’s legal counsel applied for bail, which the prosecution opposed.

Justice Ike Ogu ruled that the current status quo be maintained, allowing the first and third defendants to remain free while the second defendant remains in custody. The case was adjourned to March 7, 2025, for a full hearing.