The Digest:
In a major development on March 5, 2026, Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court in Abuja discharged and acquitted suspended Deputy Commissioner of Police Abba Kyari and his two brothers in a 23-count charge brought by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA). The charges centered on alleged non-declaration of assets, including properties in Fountain Estate, Kasa (registered under Ramatu Kyari), Linda Chuko Road, Asokoro, and Maiduguri, Borno State, as well as conspiracy and swearing false affidavits. Justice Omotosho ruled that the NDLEA failed to provide sufficient evidence, describing the prosecution's case as "watery," with no documents or proof linking Kyari to the disputed properties. The judge emphasized that property ownership must be established through title documents, acts of possession, or traditional history, none of which were presented. Kyari had maintained that Borno properties were inherited from his late father. The court also criticized the inclusion of Kyari's brothers in the conspiracy charge as "bad faith," noting the defendants had served the country well and should not face persecution. The acquittal pertains specifically to asset declaration charges; separate drug trafficking proceedings may continue independently.
Key Points
- The "watery case" finding exposes fundamental weakness in NDLEA's evidence.
- The ruling exonerates Kyari's brothers, who were allegedly improperly included.
- Kyari's inheritance defense for Borno properties was effectively upheld.
- The judge's "bad faith" comment raises questions about prosecutorial conduct.
- This ruling does not affect the separate drug trafficking charges against Kyari.
Sources: TVC, Arise TV
