Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court in Abuja has discharged and acquitted the suspended Deputy Commissioner of Police, Abba Kyari, and his two brothers (Mohammed and Ali Kyari) of all 23 counts related to the non-declaration of assets and money laundering.

concluded that the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) failed to prove its case beyond a reasonable doubt.

The judge described the prosecution’s case as “watery” and “persecutory,” stating that the NDLEA failed to provide title documents or material evidence linking Abba Kyari to the properties cited in the charges (such as those in Fountain Estate, Karsana, and Asokoro).

Regarding properties in Maiduguri, the court accepted Kyari’s defense that they belonged to his late father and were shared among approximately 30 siblings.

The court found no evidence that the funds in Kyari’s accounts were used for personal gain rather than official police operations, noting that he had properly declared the foreign currency (£7,000) found in his possession.

Justice Omotosho remarked that it was “unfortunate” for a decorated officer who had “served this country bravely” to be subjected to what he termed a baseless charge.

It is important to note that this acquittal does not end Abba Kyari’s legal battles:

• Drug Trafficking Trial: He remains in custody and is still facing a separate trial before Justice Emeka Nwite regarding his alleged involvement in a cocaine deal.
• NDLEA Response: The NDLEA has clarified that the “substantive drug case” is very much on course and is scheduled to continue on Monday, March 16, 2026.