FG Explains Withdrawal of Charges Against Fidelity Bank MD

The Office of the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice has provided reasons for the federal government’s decision to withdraw criminal charges against Mrs. Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Fidelity Bank PLC.

In a statement released on Monday, Kamarudeen Ogundele, Special Assistant to the President on Communication and Publicity (Office of the AGF), explained that the charges were dropped to prevent a miscarriage of justice. The statement emphasized that, after a thorough review, it became clear that proceeding with the case would not serve the interest of justice and fairness.

According to the Attorney General’s Office, public attention had been drawn to the decision to discontinue the case. It noted that Dr. Onyeali-Ikpe was neither the account officer nor the bank’s Managing Director at the time the account involved in the alleged fraudulent activity was opened.

“The decision to discontinue the criminal charge against Dr. Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe reflects our unwavering commitment to justice, fairness, and the rule of law,” the statement read. “As the Chief Law Officer of the Federation, the Attorney General has the constitutional authority to enter a nolle prosequi when necessary to prevent a miscarriage of justice.”

The AGF stressed that while Dr. Onyeali-Ikpe has been cleared, the charges against Fidelity Bank as an institution remain before the court.

“We urge the public to allow the legal process to proceed without speculation or premature judgment,” the statement added. “The Attorney General remains committed to ensuring that justice is served and that anyone found culpable will face the full weight of the law.”