By Nkechi Eze
The Nigeria Police Force, through the INTERPOL National Central Bureau (NCB), Abuja, has recorded significant legal victories at the Federal High Court, Abuja, with judgments that reinforce the authority of law enforcement agencies and strengthen Nigeria’s criminal justice framework.
According to an official signed statement by the Force Public Relations Officer, Deputy Commissioner of Police Anthony Placid, the rulings include a permanent forfeiture order on assets valued at over ₦2 billion, as well as the dismissal of a ₦100 million fundamental rights enforcement suit challenging police investigative actions.
In the forfeiture case, Hon. Justice Emeka Nwite, on May 14, 2026, granted a permanent forfeiture order against assets linked to financial sector staff member Alonge Opeyemi Yetunde and her accomplices. The case, marked Suit No. FHC/ABJ/CS/274/2026, involved assets located across Lagos, Osun, Delta States, and the Federal Capital Territory.
The forfeited properties include bank accounts, digital wallets, vehicles, and real estate holdings. The principal suspect, who is currently remanded at the Suleja Correctional Custodial Centre, is facing charges bordering on fraud and money laundering.
In a separate judgment delivered on May 13, 2026, Hon. 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 in charge of INTERPOL (Suit No. FCT/HC/CV/4119/45).
The court held that judicial processes cannot be used to obstruct lawful police investigations or provide protection for individuals alleged to be involved in criminal conduct. The ruling effectively clears the way for the National Central Bureau to continue prosecution efforts against the suspect over allegations of obtaining money under false pretence.
The Nigeria Police Force stated that the judgments reaffirm the independence of the judiciary and the statutory powers of law enforcement agencies to investigate, prosecute, and recover proceeds of crime.
The Force further reiterated its commitment to working with international partners and deploying legal mechanisms to combat financial crimes, recover illicit assets, and safeguard Nigeria’s economic integrity.
