Alleged N19bn fraud: Why i dropped fraud charge against Fidelity bank’s MD, Onyeali-Ikpe- AGF

By Vivian Okejeme, Abuja

The Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, Monday, explained why he dropped a fraud charge against the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, MD/CEO, of Fidelity Bank Plc, Dr. Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe.

The file marked FHC/L/138C/2025, which was before Federal High Court in Lagos, mentioned Dr. Onyeali-Ikpe as the 3rd defendant in an eight-count charge which was bordered on alleged N19billion fraud.

The AGF said the matter was dropped  after he reviewed the case and found out that Dr. Onyeali-Ikpe was no more piloting the  affairs of the bank when the alleged fraud was perpetrated.

In a statement signed by his media aide, Mr. Kamarudeen Ogundele, Fagbemi said the action he took in the matter was a testament to the commitment of his office to uphold justice and fairness.

The statement reads in parts:

“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.

“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.

“The Attorney General’s decision is guided by the principles of justice, fairness, and the rule of law, and we have every confidence that this decision is in the best interest of justice and the public.

“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.

“We urge the public to allow the legal process to run its course and to refrain from speculation or jumping to conclusions.

“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.”