Zenith, Ecobank, UBA, Others Send Messages to Customers, Close Branches Nationwide
- Commercial banks and other financial institutions have decided to close their branches across the country
- The closure comes amid safety concerns and reports of violence as the nationwide protest enters its second day
- Bank customers have been advised to use other electronic banking channels to carry out their transaction
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.
Commercial banks and other financial institutions nationwide have decided to close their branches until further notice.
In separate messages, the banks advised customers to use electronic channels to carry out transactions.
Source: Getty Images
#EndBadGovernance: Banks close branches over protests
Legit.ng had previously reported that various groups, including the Take It Back movement, called for a nationwide protest against hunger and bad governance in the country.
In several states, especially in the north, the protest escalated dramatically, with demonstrators attacking government properties and also setting fire to the headquarters of the Kaduna State Traffic Law Enforcement Agency (KASTLEA)
In addition, the protesters looted property at the Nigerian Communication Commission (NCC) office in Kano state.
Banks advise customers
Amid the protests, Nigerian banks, including Ecobank, have sent out messages via email and social media platforms to announce the closure of branches nationwide, citing safety concerns.
Punch reports that Zenith Bank along Old Ojo Road, close to First Gate, was not open, but its ATMs were available to members of the public.
The banks are advising customers to make transactions using electronic services.
The major types of E-banking are online internet banking, mobile banking, USSD, and Automated Teller Machines (ATM).
EcoBank's message to customers reads:
"Dear Customer, Due to recent developments, all our branches nationwide will be closed until further notice. We apologize for any inconvenience this temporary closure may cause.
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."
United Bank for Africa, via its Instagram page encourgaed customers to use electronic channels for transaction.
“We are just a tap away! Experience the convenience of managing your finances on the go with our digital banking platforms. Seamless transactions anytime, anywhere.”
PoS operators announce new withdrawal charges
Earlier, Legit.ng earlier reported that PoS operators hiked charges to over 100% following persistent cash scarcity.
Check showed that the PoS operators, which served as a last resort for cash-strapped Nigerians, increased their fees to N400 for every N10,000 withdrawal instead of the N200 they previously charged.
Proofreading by James, Ojo Adakole, journalist and copy editor at Legit.ng.
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Source: Legit.ng
