The attorney-general of the federation and minister of. justice, Prince Latest Fatbemi, SAN, has explained why the federal government dropped criminal charges against the managing director of Fidelity Bank, Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe.
The AGF said the decision to discontinue the criminal charge against Dr. Onyeali-Ikpe, is a testament to the government’s commitment to upholding justice and fairness.
The AGF in a statement through Kamarudeen Ogundele, Special Adviser to the President on Communication Publicity, Office of the AGF and Minister of Justice said, “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.
“This decision followed a careful review of the case which did not connect Dr. Onyeali-Ikpe to the charge as she was neither the account officer nor the Managing Director of the Fidelity Bank when the account used in the alleged scheme of fraud was opened.
“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.
“This decision does not exculpate Fidelity Bank from the allegations contained in the charge which is still pending before the court, but rather a demonstration of the Attorney General’s duty to ensure that justice is served.
“We urge the public to allow the legal process to run its course and to refrain from speculation or jumping to conclusions.”
