Criminal Charges Against Onyeali-Ikpe Dropped for Fairness, Justice—FG

By Modupe Gbadeyanka

The federal government has explained that it discontinued the criminal charges against the chief executive of Fidelity Bank Plc, Mrs Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe in the best interest of the public.

In a statement issued on Monday, June 9, 2025, a spokesperson in the Office of the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Mr Kamarudeen Ogundele, disclosed that continuing with the case against the banker would be against the rule of law, fairness and justice.

However, the Nigerian government emphasised that the charges against the financial institution remains intact, appealing to members of the public to “allow the legal process to run its course and to refrain from speculation or jumping to conclusions.”

The government explained that the decision of the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Mr Lateef Fagbemi (SAN) to discontinue the criminal charges against Mrs Onyeali-Ikpe was “a testament to the office’s commitment to upholding justice and fairness.”

“As the chief law officer of the federation, the AGF has the constitutional power to enter a nolle prosequi, discontinuing a prosecution where it is deemed necessary to prevent a miscarriage of justice,” the statement noted.

According to the statement, “This decision followed a careful review of the case which did not connect Dr Onyeali-Ikpe to the charge as she was neither the account officer nor the Managing Director of the Fidelity Bank when the account used in the alleged scheme of fraud was opened.”

“This decision does not to exculpate Fidelity Bank from the allegations contained in the charge which is still pending before the court, but rather a demonstration of the Attorney General’s duty to ensure that justice is served,” it stated.

“The AGF will ensure that the best interest of justice is served at all times and that all those found wanting, at any time, face the full weight of law to serve as a deterrent to others,” the statement concluded.