The Office of the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, has clarified its decision to discontinue criminal proceedings against the Managing Director and CEO of Fidelity Bank Plc, Dr. Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe.
A statement issued on Monday, June 9, 2025, by Kamarudeen Ogundele, Special Adviser to the President on Communication and Publicity (Office of the AGF), addressed concerns sparked by media reports alleging that the Nigerian government deliberately dropped Dr. Onyeali-Ikpe from a multi-billion-naira fraud case.
The case, filed at the Federal High Court in Lagos, involves the alleged illegal conversion of ₦19 billion belonging to Woobs Resources Limited. Initially, the charge listed Victor Ukutt, Whoba Ugwunna Ogo (who is reportedly at large), Fidelity Bank Plc, and Dr. Onyeali-Ikpe as defendants. However, an amended 10-count charge dated May 5, 2025, removed her name and substituted it with Safiya Whoba.
According to the AGF’s office, the withdrawal of charges against Dr. Onyeali-Ikpe was based on a thorough review of the case, which showed that she was not the account officer nor the MD of the bank at the time the account used in the alleged fraud was opened.
“The Attorney General’s decision to discontinue the criminal charge against Dr. Onyeali-Ikpe reflects our commitment to justice and fairness,” the statement said. “The AGF is constitutionally empowered to withdraw charges when it is necessary to prevent a miscarriage of justice.”
The statement emphasised that while Dr. Onyeali-Ikpe is no longer a defendant, Fidelity Bank remains a party to the case and is still subject to legal scrutiny over the allegations. It added that the decision does not absolve the bank of potential liability but underscores the AGF’s responsibility to ensure that prosecutions are evidence-based and not unjustly pursued.
Urging the public to avoid speculation, the AGF’s office reiterated its dedication to upholding the rule of law and ensuring that anyone found culpable will face appropriate legal consequences.
“The legal process must be allowed to take its course,” the statement concluded. “Justice will be served, and all actions taken will reflect the best interest of the public and the legal system.”
