Korede Abdullah in Lagos
The Office of the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice has clarified its position following public reactions to the withdrawal of criminal charges against the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Fidelity Bank Plc, Dr. Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe.
In a statement signed Special Adviser to the President on Communication and Publicity, Kamarudeen Ogundele on Monday,
the AGF emphasized that the move reflects a commitment to “upholding justice and fairness” and was not intended to absolve Fidelity Bank itself, which remains subject to pending legal proceedings.
According to the statement, the decision to discontinue the prosecution was taken after “a careful review of the case,” which found no direct link between Dr. Onyeali-Ikpe and the alleged fraudulent scheme.
It noted that she was neither the account officer nor the bank’s managing director when the disputed account was opened. “As the chief law officer of the federation, the AGF has the constitutional power to enter a nolle prosequi… to prevent a miscarriage of justice,” Ogundele stated.
The Attorney General’s Office urged the public to avoid speculation and allow the legal process to unfold. “This decision does not exculpate Fidelity Bank from the allegations contained in the charge… but is a demonstration of the Attorney General’s duty to ensure that justice is served,” the statement read.
Ogundele reaffirmed that the AGF remains committed to ensuring that “all those found wanting… face the full weight of the law to serve as a deterrent to others.”
