The Nigeria Police Force (NPF), through the INTERPOL National Central Bureau (NCB), Abuja, has secured two significant court victories that reinforce the country’s criminal justice framework and strengthen law enforcement efforts against financial crimes.
In one of the judgments, the Federal High Court in Abuja ordered the permanent forfeiture of assets worth more than ₦2 billion linked to a financial sector employee, Alonge Opeyemi Yetunde, and her accomplices.
Delivering judgment in Suit No. FHC/ABJ/CS/274/2026 on May 14, 2026, Justice Emeka Nwite granted the forfeiture order covering assets located across Lagos, Osun and Delta states, as well as the Federal Capital Territory. The assets include bank accounts, digital wallets, vehicles and real estate properties.
The principal suspect is currently being held at the Suleja Correctional Custodial Centre and is facing charges bordering on fraud and money laundering.
In a separate ruling, Justice Bello Kawu dismissed a ₦100 million Fundamental Rights Enforcement Suit filed against the Nigeria Police Force and the Assistant Inspector General of Police, INTERPOL, by United States-based suspect David Imole Averehi.
The suit, marked FCT/HC/CV/4119/45, was dismissed on May 13, 2026, with the court holding that judicial processes should not be used to hinder the lawful duties of the police or shield individuals suspected of criminal conduct from prosecution.
The ruling clears the way for the INTERPOL NCB, Abuja, to continue the prosecution of Averehi over allegations of obtaining money under false pretences.
Reacting to the judgments, the Nigeria Police Force described the rulings as a significant boost to efforts aimed at combating financial crimes and ensuring accountability.
The Force reiterated its commitment to working with international law enforcement partners and deploying all legal mechanisms available to investigate, track and prosecute financial criminals, while safeguarding Nigeria’s economic integrity.
The latest court victories underscore the NPF’s determination to strengthen the fight against fraud, money laundering and other financial offences, as authorities continue efforts to recover illicit assets and bring offenders to justice.
