Nigeria Police Extradite Fugitive to UK for Murder and Drug Trafficking Charges
The Nigeria Police Force, operating through the INTERPOL National Central Bureau (NCB) in Abuja, has successfully facilitated the extradition of a fugitive, Matthew Chukwuemeka Adebiyi, to the United Kingdom. He is set to face serious charges related to murder and drug trafficking, marking a significant step in international law enforcement cooperation.
Details of the Extradition and Charges
The extradition process was initiated following a formal request from United Kingdom authorities in September 2024. They sought to locate, arrest, and extradite Adebiyi over his alleged involvement in the murder of Joshua Boadu on June 18, 2018. After the incident, Adebiyi fled to Nigeria in an attempt to evade arrest. Additionally, he is accused of being involved in the supply of crack cocaine, a Class-A controlled drug, between October 2017 and March 2018 in the UK.
Legal Proceedings and Arrest
Adebiyi was arrested on January 23, 2025, by operatives of the INTERPOL NCB Abuja. Subsequently, extradition proceedings were commenced at the Federal High Court, Lagos Judicial Division, under Suit No. FHC/L/CS/416/2025. On February 16, 2026, Honourable Justice A.O. Faji granted the application for his extradition, in accordance with the Extradition Act, Cap E25, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004.
Handover and Commitment to International Cooperation
Pursuant to the court order and the execution of a surrender warrant by relevant Nigerian authorities, the fugitive was formally handed over to United Kingdom law enforcement officials on April 14, 2026, at the Murtala Mohammed International Airport in Lagos. This action ensures his diligent prosecution in the UK. IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, psc(+), NPM, has reiterated the commitment of the Nigeria Police Force to strengthening international police cooperation and ensuring that Nigeria does not become a safe haven for fugitives.
