Police Win Court Rulings in N2 bn Forfeiture and Fraud Case

Linus Aleke in Abuja

The Nigeria Police Force, acting through the INTERPOL National Central Bureau (NCB) in Abuja, has achieved two notable judicial victories at the Federal High Court, Abuja, reinforcing the country’s criminal jurisprudence and expanding law‑enforcement authority.

In the first ruling, delivered on Tuesday, 14 May 2026, Justice Emeka Nwite issued a permanent forfeiture order against assets worth more than N2 billion connected to financial‑sector employee Alonge Opeyemi Yetunde and her associates. The case is recorded as Suit No. FHC/ABJ/CS/274/2026.

According to a statement by the Force Public Relations Officer, DCP Anthony Placid, the forfeited assets—located in Lagos, Osun, Delta States and the Federal Capital Territory—include bank accounts, digital wallets, vehicles and real‑estate properties.

The principal suspect, who is currently remanded at the Suleja Correctional Custodial Centre, faces charges that encompass fraud and money laundering.

In a related matter, the Court dismissed on Monday, 13 May 2026, a N100 million Fundamental Rights Enforcement Suit filed by United States‑based suspect David Imole Averehi against the Nigeria Police Force and the Assistant Inspector‑General of Police, INTERPOL. The case is listed as Suit No. FCT/HC/CV/4119/45.

Justice Bello Kawu ruled that the court cannot be used to obstruct lawful statutory duties of the police or to shield individuals alleged to be involved in criminal activities from prosecution.

The judgment cleared the way for the NCB to proceed with the prosecution of Averehi for obtaining money under false pretences.

The Nigeria Police Force reiterated its commitment to using international cooperation frameworks and the full force of the law to pursue financial crimes and protect Nigeria’s economic integrity.