Court Backs Police In ₦2bn Asset Forfeiture, Affirms Investigative Powers
A major boost to Nigeria’s anti-financial crime efforts has emerged from the courts, with the police securing the permanent forfeiture of assets worth more than ₦2 billion and winning a separate legal battle that reinforces its investigative powers
The Nigeria Police Force has secured two significant court victories in Abuja, strengthening its campaign against financial crimes and reinforcing its authority to investigate and prosecute offenders.
In one of the rulings, the Federal High Court ordered the permanent forfeiture of assets valued at over ₦2 billion linked to a financial sector employee, Alonge Opeyemi Yetunde, and her associates.
The assets, spread across Lagos, Osun, Delta States and the Federal Capital Territory, include bank accounts, digital wallets, vehicles and properties.
The order was granted by Justice Emeka Nwite following investigations by the INTERPOL National Central Bureau, Abuja.
Police said the principal suspect is currently being held at the Suleja Correctional Custodial Centre and is facing charges bordering on fraud and money laundering.
In a separate judgment, Justice Bello Kawu dismissed a ₦100 million fundamental rights enforcement suit filed against the Nigeria Police Force by United States-based suspect David Imole Averehi.
The court ruled that judicial processes should not be used to obstruct lawful police investigations or shield suspects from prosecution.
The decision clears the way for the police to proceed with charges against Averehi over alleged obtaining by false pretences.
The Police described the judgments as a strong affirmation of law enforcement powers and pledged to continue working with international partners to combat financial crimes and safeguard Nigeria’s economic integrity.
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