Federal Court Clears Abba Kyari of NDLEA Asset Declaration Charges
In a significant legal development, the Federal High Court in Abuja has discharged and acquitted suspended Deputy Commissioner of Police Abba Kyari of all 23-count charges brought against him by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) regarding alleged non-declaration of assets.
Judge Rules Prosecution Failed to Establish Case
Presiding Justice James Omotosho delivered the landmark ruling on Thursday, March 5, 2026, stating unequivocally that the prosecution had failed to establish its case against Kyari and his co-defendants. The judge emphasized that the evidence presented by the NDLEA was insufficient to sustain the charges, leading to the complete exoneration of the suspended police officer.
The court proceedings revealed that Kyari had been facing serious allegations of failing to properly declare his assets as required by law, with the NDLEA pursuing the case as part of broader anti-corruption efforts within law enforcement agencies.
Brothers Also Cleared of False Affidavit Allegations
In a related development, Kyari's two brothers, who were named as co-defendants in the case, were also discharged and acquitted. They had been accused of swearing false affidavits to conceal the origin of properties allegedly linked to the suspended police officer.
Justice Omotosho found that the prosecution could not substantiate these allegations either, leading to their complete exoneration alongside their brother. The ruling represents a comprehensive legal victory for all defendants involved in the high-profile case.
Background of the Case
The NDLEA had initiated proceedings against Kyari following his suspension from the Nigeria Police Force, alleging that he had violated asset declaration requirements. The case had been closely watched by legal observers and the public alike, given Kyari's previous high-profile position and the broader implications for accountability within Nigeria's security apparatus.
The 23-count charge represented one of the most comprehensive asset declaration cases brought against a serving police officer in recent years, making Thursday's acquittal particularly noteworthy in Nigeria's legal landscape.
Legal experts suggest that the ruling may have implications for how similar cases are prosecuted in the future, particularly regarding the evidentiary standards required to sustain allegations of improper asset declaration by public officials.
