The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) recently had to address and debunk a false claim that has been making the rounds on social media, particularly on WhatsApp. This false claim involved a circular that falsely stated that the CBN had withdrawn the licenses of three Deposit Money Banks in Nigeria. These banks were identified as Heritage Bank, Unity Bank, and Keystone Bank.
The fraudulent circular was poorly written, yet it managed to cause quite a stir among the public. It alarmingly advised the customers of the three mentioned banks to withdraw all their funds immediately using Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) or to transfer their money to other banks without delay. The circular suggested that failing to do so promptly might result in customers losing their funds.
Moreover, the fake document urged people to spread this false information to their colleagues, family members, and friends. It contained a plea that read, “Let’s be of help to others,” suggesting that by sharing the information, individuals would be aiding others in safeguarding their finances.
On Wednesday, the Central Bank of Nigeria took to its verified Facebook page to clear the air. The apex bank categorically stated that the circular in question was a “fake document” designed to mislead the public. The CBN made it clear that it had no connection whatsoever with the content of the false circular. In its post, the bank stated, “It has nothing to do with the Central Bank of Nigeria.”
