The Office of the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice has formally discontinued the criminal charge filed against Dr. Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Fidelity Bank Plc.
The decision, which has drawn wide public attention, followed a careful legal review that found no direct link between Dr. Onyeali-Ikpe and the alleged fraud case in question. According to a statement released by Kamarudeen Ogundele, Special Assistant to the President on Communication and Publicity (Office of the AGF), the review showed that Dr. Onyeali-Ikpe was neither the account officer nor the CEO of the bank at the time the implicated account was opened.
“The Attorney General acted within his constitutional powers to enter a nolle prosequi in the matter,” the statement read. “This was necessary to prevent a miscarriage of justice and reflects the AGF’s commitment to uphold fairness, justice, and the rule of law.”
The statement further clarified that while the charges against Dr. Onyeali-Ikpe have been dropped, the case against Fidelity Bank as a corporate entity remains active and pending before the court. The Attorney General’s office stressed that the decision should not be seen as a blanket exoneration of the bank but as a step to ensure that only those directly connected to the alleged wrongdoing are held accountable.
“We urge members of the public to refrain from speculation and allow the legal process to take its course,” Ogundele added. “The AGF will continue to ensure that justice is served and that anyone found culpable will face the full weight of the law.”
The withdrawal of charges marks a significant moment in the ongoing case and highlights the AGF’s discretion in managing sensitive legal matters involving high-profile individuals and institutions. It also serves as a reminder of the importance of due process and prosecutorial integrity in the administration of justice.
Dr. Onyeali-Ikpe, who has consistently maintained her innocence, has yet to issue a public statement on the development.
The legal proceedings involving Fidelity Bank are expected to continue, with court dates and further updates anticipated in the coming weeks.
Stay informed, stay ahead with The Ameh News
Discover more from Ameh News
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
