Abuja, April 16, 2026 — The Nigeria Police Force (NPF), through the International Police (INTERPOL) National Central Bureau (NCB) Abuja, has successfully extradited one Matthew Chukwuemeka Adebiyi to the United Kingdom to face charges of murder and drug trafficking.
The move represents one of the most high-profile extraditions in recent years.
It highlights Nigeria’s commitment to international justice and its refusal to allow fugitives to find refuge within its borders.
Background of the Adebiyi Case
UK authorities formally requested Adebiyi’s extradition in September 2024, linking him to the murder of Joshua Boadu on June 18, 2018.
The case shocked the diasporan communities in the UK.
Investigators allege that Adebiyi fled to Nigeria shortly after the killing to avoid arrest.
In addition to the murder charge, Adebiyi faces allegations of involvement in the supply of crack cocaine, a Class-A controlled substance, between October 2017 and March 2018.
UK prosecutors argue that his activities contributed to the spread of dangerous narcotics in London and surrounding areas, compounding the severity of the charges against him.
Adebiyi’s Arrest and Court Proceedings
The Nigeria Police Force, working through INTERPOL NCB Abuja, tracked Adebiyi’s movements and arrested him on January 23, 2025.
His capture was the result of months of intelligence-sharing between Nigerian and British authorities.
Following his arrest, extradition proceedings were initiated at the Federal High Court, Lagos Judicial Division, under Suit No. FHC/L/CS/416/2025.
The case was closely monitored by both Nigerian and UK officials, given its implications for bilateral cooperation.
On February 16, 2026, Honourable Justice A.O. Faji granted the extradition order, citing Nigeria’s Extradition Act, Cap E25, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004.
The ruling affirmed Nigeria’s legal framework for handling international extradition requests and underscored the judiciary’s role in upholding international obligations.
Handover to UK Authorities
Pursuant to the court’s order and the execution of a surrender warrant, Adebiyi was formally handed over to UK law enforcement officials on April 14, 2026, at Murtala Mohammed International Airport, Lagos.
The handover was conducted under tight security, with Nigerian officers ensuring a seamless transfer to British authorities.
Adebiyi is now expected to face trial in the UK.
Prosecutors there will present evidence linking him to both the murder and drug trafficking charges.
Statement from the Inspector General of Police
Inspector General of Police Olatunji Rilwan Disu reaffirmed the NPF’s commitment to global policing cooperation with the case of Adebiyi in view.
Disu said: “Nigeria will not serve as a safe haven for fugitives.
“We remain committed to strengthening global police collaboration and ensuring justice is served.
“This extradition demonstrates our resolve to work hand-in-hand with international partners to combat crime across borders.”
Broader Implications
The extradition of Adebiyi underscores Nigeria’s growing role in international law enforcement cooperation and its determination to combat transnational crime.
It also demonstrates the effectiveness of INTERPOL coordination in ensuring fugitives cannot escape justice by crossing borders.
The extradition of Matthew Chukwuemeka Adebiyi marks a significant milestone in Nigeria’s fight against transnational crime.
By cooperating with UK authorities, the Nigeria Police Force has reinforced its stance that fugitives cannot evade justice within its borders.
