The President of the Court calls for the return of stolen goods and resources to the victim nations

Against the backdrop of initiatives to combat economic crime through institutional collaboration and international cooperation, the President of the Court of Appeal, Honorable Justice Monica Bolna’an Dongban-Mensem, has once again called for the prompt restitution of ill-gotten wealth, stolen assets and recovered assets to victim nations, stating that without such repatriation, the promise of justice remains unfulfilled.

Dongban-Mensem made the renewed call while delivering a speech at the just concluded 43rd Cambridge International Symposium on Economic Crime, held in the UK, warning that illicit wealth must not be allowed to influence, finance impunity or further crime.

At the summit, where Nigeria’s judiciary, law enforcement and financial regulators were prominently represented, the Chief Justice noted that the participation of the Nigerian delegation reflects the country’s commitment to combating economic crime through institutional collaboration and international cooperation.

A press release made available to Blueprint on Sunday by its assistant information officer Gaar Bukola states: “Economic crime is not simply a financial problem but a social justice issue as stolen assets deprive companies of opportunities and undermine public trust.

He also stressed the need for perseverance and courage, adding: “There should be collaboration to make the financial foundations of criminal enterprises increasingly difficult to sustain.”

Dongban-Mensem then thanked the symposium’s founder, Professor Barry Rider, the OBE, the University of Cambridge and Jesus College for hosting the event.