By Safiyat Muhammed | The Bureau News
The Office of the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, has clarified its decision to discontinue a criminal fraud charge against Dr. Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe, Managing Director/CEO of Fidelity Bank Plc.
The clarification was issued on June 9, 2025, by Kamarudeen Ogundele, Special Adviser to the President on Communication and Publicity, Office of the AGF. This follows public reactions to reports alleging that the Nigerian government dropped Onyeali-Ikpe’s name from a N19 billion fraud case involving Woobs Resources Limited.
Case Background
The case, initially filed before the Federal High Court, Lagos, accused Victor Ukutt (lawyer), Whoba Ugwunna Ogo (at large), Fidelity Bank Plc, and Onyeali-Ikpe of unlawfully converting funds belonging to Woobs Resources Limited. However, an amended charge on May 5, 2025, replaced Onyeali-Ikpe’s name with Safiya Whoba.
AGF’s Justification
In a statement, the AGF’s office emphasized that the discontinuation aligns with justice and fairness:
“The decision followed a careful review, which revealed no connection between Dr. Onyeali-Ikpe and the alleged fraud. She was neither the account officer nor MD when the account in question was opened.”
The AGF stressed that the move does not exonerate Fidelity Bank, as the case continues against other defendants.
Key Takeaways
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The AGF has constitutional authority to discontinue cases to prevent miscarriage of justice.
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The public is urged to avoid speculation and allow the legal process to proceed.
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The office reaffirmed its commitment to the rule of law and vowed to prosecute all guilty parties.
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