Access Bank Plc has dismissed viral social media claims alleging that it is shutting down, describing the reports as false and reassuring customers that the financial institution remains financially strong and fully operational.
In a statement released on Thursday through its official X account, the bank said the circulating message falsely impersonated its official communication channels and was deliberately designed to mislead the public and create unnecessary panic.
“We wish to reassure our customers, partners, stakeholders, and the public that Access Bank is safe, financially strong, and fully operational across all our subsidiaries. Our services continue to run seamlessly, and we remain committed to serving our customers with the highest standards of excellence,” the bank said.
The lender stressed that the claims suggesting it was preparing to shut down were entirely unfounded and urged customers and members of the public to ignore the misinformation.
According to the bank, normal banking operations continue across its branches, digital platforms and subsidiaries, with no disruption to customer services.
Access Bank also disclosed that it has commenced efforts to identify those responsible for originating and circulating the false claims.
“We are working closely with the relevant regulatory and law enforcement authorities to identify those responsible for creating and spreading this false information to cause panic and business disruption. Appropriate legal action will be taken in accordance with applicable laws and regulations,” the statement added.
The bank warned that deliberately creating and distributing false information capable of causing public panic or undermining confidence in financial institutions is a criminal offence under Section 24 of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) (Amendment) Act, 2024.
It urged customers to rely only on information published through its verified communication platforms and to avoid sharing unverified messages circulating on social media.
“If you receive a false and misleading message, please do not share or forward it. Instead, disregard it and rely only on information communicated through Access Bank’s official and verified channels,” the bank advised.
The clarification comes amid growing concerns over the spread of misinformation on social media, where false reports targeting public institutions and corporate organisations have increasingly triggered confusion and unnecessary anxiety among customers and investors.
