The Nigeria Police Force has extradited a fugitive, Matthew Chukwuemeka Adebiyi, to the United Kingdom to face charges of murder and drug trafficking, reaffirming its commitment to international law enforcement cooperation.
The extradition was facilitated by the INTERPOL National Central Bureau (NCB), Abuja, following a formal request by UK authorities in September 2024 to locate, arrest, and surrender the suspect.
Force Public Relations Officer, Anthony Okon Placid, confirmed the development, noting that the operation underscores the Nigeria Police Force’s commitment to upholding international justice and the rule of law.
According to police authorities, Adebiyi is wanted in connection with the alleged murder of Joshua Boadu on June 18, 2018, in the United Kingdom, after which he reportedly fled to Nigeria. He is also accused of involvement in the supply of crack cocaine, a Class-A controlled substance, between October 2017 and March 2018.
The suspect was arrested on January 23, 2025, by operatives of INTERPOL NCB Abuja. Subsequent extradition proceedings were initiated at the Federal High Court, Lagos Judicial Division, under Suit No. FHC/L/CS/416/2025.
On February 16, 2026, Justice A.O. Faji granted the application for extradition in line with the Extradition Act, Cap E25, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004.
Following the court’s approval and the issuance of a surrender warrant by relevant authorities, Adebiyi was formally handed over to UK law enforcement officials on April 14, 2026, at the Murtala Mohammed International Airport, Lagos, for prosecution.
The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, reiterated the force’s resolve to strengthen global policing partnerships and ensure that Nigeria does not serve as a safe haven for fugitives.
