NPF Extradites Murder, Drug Trafficking Suspect to UK, Reaffirms Global Policing Commitment

The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has extradited a fugitive, Matthew Chukwuemeka Adebiyi, to the United Kingdom over alleged involvement in murder and drug trafficking.

Force Public Relations Officer, DCP Anthony Okon Placid, disclosed the development in a statement issued on April 16, 2026, in Abuja., the extradition was carried out 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 in connection with the alleged murder of Joshua Boadu on June 18, 2018.

He was also accused of supplying crack cocaine, classified as a Class-A controlled drug, 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, Lagos. In Suit No. FHC/L/CS/416/2025, Justice A.O. Faji, on February 16, 2026, granted the application for his extradition in line with the Extradition Act.

Following the court’s approval and the execution of a surrender warrant by Nigerian authorities, Adebiyi was handed over to UK law enforcement officials on April 14, 2026, at the Murtala Mohammed International Airport, Lagos, for prosecution.

Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, reaffirmed the commitment of the Nigeria Police Force to international collaboration, stressing that Nigeria will not serve as a safe haven for fugitives.