NEWS
NDLEA Clarifies Legal Position as Substantive Drug Trafficking Trial Against Suspended DCP Abba Kyari Continues Unaffected Despite Discharge in Separate Court Case
The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has firmly clarified that the substantive drug trafficking case against suspended Deputy Commissioner of Police Abba Kyari remains active and on course, stressing that the recent court decision discharging him in a separate case does not in any way affect the ongoing drug prosecution.
The agency disclosed that the main drug-related trial will proceed as scheduled before Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court of Nigeria, Abuja Division, on Monday, March 16, 2026.
The clarification came in response to widespread reactions following a ruling by James Omotosho, who recently discharged Kyari in a 23-count charge involving alleged money laundering and non-declaration of assets. The NDLEA emphasized that the judgment relates strictly to a different legal matter and should not be mistaken as a resolution of the substantive drug trafficking case currently before the court.
According to the agency, the drug prosecution remains intact and continues to progress through the judicial process without interruption.
Reacting to public inquiries on whether the NDLEA intends to challenge the ruling delivered by Justice Omotosho, the agency’s Director of Media and Advocacy,
Femi Babafemi, explained that the prosecution team has been instructed to obtain the Certified True Copy of the judgment before any decision is taken on possible legal action.
Babafemi clarified that the case determined by Justice Omotosho is entirely distinct from the substantive drug charges pending before Justice Nwite, reiterating that the latter remains active and unaffected by the recent court decision.
Providing further explanation on the matter, Babafemi stated that the ruling delivered by Justice Omotosho concerns a completely separate case and should not be interpreted as having any bearing on the primary drug prosecution. He emphasized that the substantive drug case continues before Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court in Abuja and remains firmly on track for hearing on March 16, 2026.
He further noted that the NDLEA’s legal team would thoroughly examine the detailed judgment once the Certified True Copy is obtained. The outcome of that review, he explained, will guide the agency’s management in determining whether there are sufficient legal grounds to file an appeal against the ruling.
The development highlights the complex legal challenges currently facing the suspended senior police officer. Despite the recent discharge in the money laundering case, the NDLEA has reiterated its determination to continue prosecuting the substantive drug trafficking allegations until the matter is fully resolved in court.
Through its latest clarification, the anti-narcotics agency reaffirmed its commitment to due process and the rule of law while maintaining its resolve to ensure that the ongoing drug case proceeds to its logical conclusion within the judicial system.