In a stunning development over the gruesome murder of an estate agent, Richard Ekpebu, a Bayelsa State High Court has remanded five suspects, including the key accused, George Idumange, popularly known as Pastor Brandy.
They will remain in custody at the Okaka Medium Correctional Centre until April 14, 2026. Idumange and four others were arraigned on 12 charges, ranging from conspiracy to murder and murder to illegal possession of firearms, armed robbery, and destruction of evidence.
Co-accused include his girlfriend, Miss Victory Bernard, a staff member of Okaka Medium Correctional Centre with the rank of ASP equivalent; Ekiamene Amaoniye, also known as Cash Money; Ibo Imaremi Gold, alias Police; and Henry Igwe.
All accused pleaded not guilty to the charges read before Justice Raphael Ajuwa in suit number BYHC/YHC/CR/19/2026.
Following arguments from the prosecution and defense, Justice Ajuwa granted the state’s application to remand the suspects pending trial. The trial has been adjourned to April 14, 15, and 16, after the state assured the court that its 20 witnesses are ready to testify in batches.
Queen Felix, sister of the key suspect and sixth accused, was absent from court. The DPP told the court that she had been granted administrative bail due to illness and is not facing murder charges but forgery.
“She was very sick. And she is still not available. She is not actually charged with murder but forgery, so she can be charged separately,” the DPP explained.
Ekpebu was reportedly murdered over a land sales dispute, with his body dumped in a bush along New Otuoke Road near Bayelsa Palm on July 24, 2025.
The suspects were arrested following a coordinated investigation by the police tactical unit, Operation Puff Adder, led by CSP Chris Nwaogbo, covering Lagos, Port Harcourt, and Yenagoa.
The case has captured widespread attention, with many awaiting justice for the slain estate agent.
