By Jane Okafor, Abuja
The Nigeria Police Force has extradited a fugitive, Matthew Chukwuemeka Adebiyi, to the United Kingdom to face charges of murder and drug trafficking, marking a significant milestone in international law enforcement collaboration.
According to a statement issued on Thursday, April 16, 2026, by Force Public Relations Officer, DCP Anthony Okon Placid, the extradition was coordinated through the INTERPOL National Central Bureau (NCB) in Abuja following a formal request by UK authorities in September 2024.
The request sought the arrest and transfer of Adebiyi over his alleged involvement in the murder of Joshua Boadu on June 18, 2018, as well as his suspected role in the supply of crack cocaine between October 2017 and March 2018 in the UK.
Police operatives arrested the suspect on January 23, 2025, after which extradition proceedings commenced at the Federal High Court. In Suit No. FHC/L/CS/416/2025, Justice A.O. Faji granted the extradition request on February 16, 2026, in line with Nigeria’s Extradition Act.
Following the court’s approval and the execution of a surrender warrant, Adebiyi was formally handed over to UK law enforcement officials on April 14, 2026, at the Murtala Mohammed International Airport for prosecution.
Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, reaffirmed the Force’s commitment to strengthening global policing partnerships and ensuring that Nigeria does not serve as a safe haven for fugitives.
The police described the extradition as a testament to Nigeria’s resolve to uphold international justice and deepen cooperation with foreign law enforcement agencies in tackling transnational crimes.
