Nigerian Bank Announces New Closing Time, Advises Customers As Hunger Protest Spreads

• Ecobank Nigeria has announced plans to close branches nationwide early amid ongoing hunger protests
• The bank has informed customers of the changes and provided advice on what can be done when in need of banking services
• Some banks in the country were forced to close branches without notice as the protests escalated into violence

Legit.ng journalist Dave Ibemere has over a decade of business journalism experience with in-depth knowledge of the Nigerian economy, stocks, and general market trends.

Nigerian banks and other financial institutions have decided to close their branches or alter their operating hours due to the escalating violence in ongoing hunger protests.

Ecobank is one such bank that has made the decision and has sent out notifications to customers about plans to close its branches nationwide earlier than usual.

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In a notice sent to customers, the bank said it would be closing before 4pm and provided guidance on how to access banking services during this period.

Ecobanks's message to customers read:

"Dear Customer. We wish to inform you that, due to recent developments, all our branches nationwide will close early at 3:00 PM today.

"We encourage you to use our alternative channels, which remain available 24/7 for all your banking needs. Our digital services include Ecobank Online, the Ecobank Mobile App, *326#, Omnilite, OmniPlus, as well as our Cards and ATMs.

"We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause. For any inquiries, please contact our 24/7 customer service center using the details below."

Banks closes branches

Punch newspaper also reports that due to the protests, many banks and other financial institutions have decided to close branches.

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Checks by Legit.ng show that none of the banks outrightly announced a closure, except for Ecobank's notice to customers regarding the change in operating hours.

Bank customers rush to reactivate dormant accounts

Legit.ng earlier reported that bank customers affected by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) guidelines on dormant accounts rushed to their respective banks on Tuesday, July 30, 2024, to reactivate their accounts.

Some customers said they had to activate their bank accounts to prevent the CBN from taking over their funds and savings.

Reports say courtrooms were also swarming with those who went to swear to affidavits needed to reactivate their dormant account.

Proofreading by James, Ojo Adakole, journalist and copy editor at Legit.ng.

Source: Legit.ng