Alleged Fraud: Police secure ₦2bn asset forfeiture, court upholds investigative powers

By Kingsley Omonobi

The Nigeria Police Force, through the INTERPOL National Central Bureau (NCB), Abuja, has secured two separate Federal High Court judgments in Abuja in cases involving alleged fraud and money laundering.

The rulings led to the permanent forfeiture of assets valued at over ₦2 billion and reaffirmed the authority of the police to carry out investigations without obstruction.

Force Public Relations Officer, DCP Anthony Okon Placid, disclosed this in a statement on Thursday.

He said on May 14, 2026, Justice Emeka Nwite granted a permanent forfeiture order on assets belonging to a financial sector employee, Alonge Opeyemi Yetunde, and her alleged accomplices.

The order (Suit No. FHC/ABJ/CS/274/2026) covers properties and assets located in Lagos, Osun, Delta States, and the Federal Capital Territory, including bank accounts, digital wallets, vehicles and real estate.

The principal suspect is currently remanded at the Suleja Correctional Centre and is facing charges of fraud and money laundering.

In a related ruling on 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 (Suit No. FCT/HC/CV/4119/45).

The court held that judicial processes cannot be used to obstruct lawful police duties or shield individuals allegedly involved in criminal activity.

The ruling allows the NCB to proceed with prosecuting Averehi for alleged obtaining of money under false pretences.

The Nigeria Police Force said it remains committed to leveraging international cooperation and legal instruments to pursue financial crimes and protect Nigeria’s economic integrity.

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