The Attorney General of the Federation AGF and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi has given reasons why his office discontinued a criminal suit against the Managing Director/CEO of Fidelity Bank, Dr. Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe, saying it was to uphold the principles of justice, equity and fair play.

He also noted that as the chief law officer of the federation, the AGF has the constitutional power to enter a nolle prosequi, discontinuing a prosecution where it is deemed necessary to prevent a miscarriage of justice.

Fagbemi further disclosed that the decision to discontinue with the suit was sequel to a careful review of the case, which did not connect Dr. Onyeali-Ikpe to the charge as she was neither the account officer nor the Managing Director of the Fidelity Bank when the account used in the alleged scheme of fraud was opened.

According to him, his office’s decision to discontinue the matter is guided by the principles of justice, fairness, and the rule of law, adding that this is in the interest of the public and law.

A statement by the Special Assistant to the President on Communication and Publicity in the office of the AGF and Minister of Justice, Kamarudeen Ogundele, said the decision to discontinue with the matter was to forestall a miscarriage of justice.

The statement dated June 9, 2025, reads in part: “The attention of the Office of the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice has been drawn to reactions trailing the discontinuation of the criminal charge against the Managing Director and Chief/CEO of Fidelity Bank Plc.

“The Attorney General’s decision to discontinue the criminal charge against Dr. Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe, MD/CEO of Fidelity Bank Plc, is a testament to the office’s commitment to upholding justice and fairness. As the chief law officer of the federation, the AGF has the constitutional power to enter a nolle prosequi, discontinuing a prosecution where it is deemed necessary to prevent a miscarriage of justice.

“This decision followed a careful review of the case which did not connect Dr. Onyeali-Ikpe to the charge as she was neither the account officer nor the Managing Director of the Fidelity Bank when the account used in the alleged scheme of fraud was opened.

“The Attorney General’s decision is guided by the principles of justice, fairness, and the rule of law, and we have every confidence that this decision is in the best interest of justice and the public.

“This decision does not to exculpate Fidelity Bank from the allegations contained in the charge which is still pending before the court, but rather a demonstration of the Attorney General’s duty to ensure that justice is served.

“We urge the public to allow the legal process to run its course and to refrain from speculation or jumping to conclusions.

“The AGF will ensure that the best interest of Justice is served at all times and that all those found wanting, at any time, face the full weight of law to serve as a deterrent to others.”