Police Secures Permanent Forfeiture Of N2bn Assets Linked To Fraud

The Nigeria Police Force, through the INTERPOL National Central Bureau (NCB), Abuja, has secured two landmark judgments at the Federal High Court, Abuja, leading to the permanent forfeiture of assets valued at over N2 billion linked to financial fraud and money laundering.

The ruling, delivered by Justice Emeka Nwite, granted the forfeiture of assets belonging to a financial sector employee, Alonge Opeyemi Yetunde, and her alleged accomplices in Suit No. FHC/ABJ/CS/274/2026.

The forfeited properties span Lagos, Osun, Delta States, and the Federal Capital Territory, and include bank accounts, digital wallets, vehicles, and real estate assets.

The principal suspect is currently being held at the Suleja Correctional Custodial Centre, where she is facing charges bordering on fraud and money laundering.

According to Force Public Relations Officer, DCP Anthony Okon Placid, the ruling represents a significant step in strengthening Nigeria’s anti-corruption and asset recovery framework.

He also disclosed that in a related judgment delivered on Monday, May 13, 2026, Justice Bello Kawu dismissed a ₦100 million fundamental rights enforcement suit filed by an American-based suspect, David Imole Averehi, against the Nigeria Police Force and the Assistant Inspector General of Police, INTERPOL, in Suit No. FCT/HC/CV/4119/45.

The court held that judicial processes cannot be used to obstruct lawful police investigations or shield individuals accused of criminal activity from prosecution.

Justice Kawu ruled that the application lacked merit, thereby allowing the police to proceed with the prosecution of Averehi for allegedly obtaining money under false pretences.

The police said the judgments underscore their commitment to international collaboration and the enforcement of financial crime laws aimed at protecting Nigeria’s economic integrity.

DCP Placid added that the Nigeria Police Force will continue to deploy all lawful mechanisms to track, recover, and forfeit proceeds of crime, while ensuring that offenders are brought to justice.