A Nigerian federal court has sentenced a man to life imprisonment for his role in the 2023 kidnapping of a state high court judge, an attack that resulted in the death of her police escort.
Nkereuwem Felix Effiong, 30, was convicted on charges of conspiracy to commit terrorism, belonging to a terrorist group, and kidnapping under the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022. The sentencing, delivered by Justice Chigozie Sergius Onah of the Federal High Court in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, marks the culmination of a case stemming from the abduction of Justice Joy Unwana.
Justice Unwana and her driver, Idorenyin Ekanem, were seized on December 18, 2023, around 8 p.m. on the Okobo–Esuk Inwang–Ndon Ebom Road. During the incident, her police orderly, ThankGod Ekanem, was shot and killed. The judge and driver were held for five days before their release following a ransom payment.
Effiong, from Ikot Ekwere in Ibesikpo Asutan LGA, was arrested by the State Security Service (SSS) on July 4, 2024. During trial, he provided a detailed confessional statement. He admitted joining the criminal syndicate, known as the “Bling Bling Marine Strike Force,” in November 2023. He confessed to participating in three kidnappings, including Justice Unwana’s, for which the gang received ₦25 million. Effiong stated his personal share was ₦300,000. He also disclosed involvement in the abduction of an Apostolic Church pastor in Oron and another victim whose family paid ₦5 million.
While Effiong initially pleaded guilty to all four counts, the court entered a plea of not guilty on the principal kidnapping charge due to its gravity. The Legal Aid Council of Nigeria represented him throughout the proceedings, ensuring due process.
In the judgment delivered on February 23, 2026, the court found the prosecution had proven its case beyond reasonable doubt on counts one, two, and three. Effiong received a 25-year sentence for conspiracy, 20 years for terrorist group membership, and life imprisonment for the kidnapping. He was acquitted on the fourth count of concealing information. The life sentence for the kidnapping of a judicial officer is the most severe penalty, ensuring he will remain incarcerated for the remainder of his natural life, subject to legal appeals.
The case highlights the persistent threat of kidnapping and terrorism in parts of Nigeria and underscores the judiciary’s stance on severe punishment for attacks on state officials and the loss of security personnel in the line of duty.
