The Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF), Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, has stated that the decision to discontinue the criminal case against Dr Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe, Managing Director of Fidelity Bank Plc, was taken to uphold justice and fairness.
This was disclosed in a statement issued on Monday in Abuja by the AGF’s Special Assistant on Communication and Publicity, Mr Kamarudeen Ogundele.
According to the statement, a detailed review of the case showed that Onyeali-Ikpe had no direct involvement, as she was neither the account officer nor the bank’s Managing Director at the time the account in question—linked to an alleged fraud—was opened.
“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,” the statement read.
“This decision followed a careful review of the case which did not connect Onyeali-Ikpe to the charge. 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.”
Fagbemi clarified that the decision to withdraw the charge does not exonerate Fidelity Bank as an institution from the allegations, which remain pending before the court.
He emphasised that the move underscores the AGF’s duty to ensure justice is delivered fairly and responsibly.
“We urge the public to allow the legal process to run its course and to refrain from speculation or jumping to conclusions,” he added.
“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.”
(NAN)
