The Court of Appeal in Abuja has sided with Fidelity Bank in its appeal against a ruling from the Federal Capital Territory High Court. The initial judgment awarded N10 million in costs against the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the bank, stemming from a fundamental rights violation case.
On September 14, 2026, a three-judge panel led by Justice Adebukola Banjoko agreed with Fidelity Bank's arguments, stating that the allegations made by Michael Kundera did not warrant the trial court's findings. The bank's counsel, Uzomah Ibegbulem Esq., emphasized that the petition was based on criminal allegations against other entities, not Kundera.
- The court noted a lack of credible evidence proving that Kundera's rights were infringed upon by the bank.
- Justice Banjoko highlighted that Kundera failed to meet the burden of proof necessary to substantiate his claims against the bank.
The case originated when Kundera alleged that his rights were violated during his arrest and detention by the EFCC in May 2023. Fidelity Bank contested the ruling, arguing that the trial judge misdirected himself in granting reliefs without sufficient evidence.
This ruling adds to a series of favorable outcomes for financial institutions in legal disputes, reinforcing the importance of credible evidence in cases involving fundamental rights.