A customer of First Bank of Nigeria PLC, Mr. Izogie Evanni Akugbe, has called for an expedited investigation into the alleged unauthorized access to his bank account by unknown individuals, allegedly in collusion with some First Bank employees.
In a petition dated December 13, 2024, filed by his lawyer, Barrister Ikeorha Kehinde, Mr. Akugbe expressed shock over the breach of his account (Account Number: 3081431121).
The petition alleges that an unidentified individual contacted the customer, revealing sensitive details—including his Bank Verification Number (BVN) and account statement—reportedly obtained through First Bank staff.
According to the lawyer, “Our client was informed by a third party that his account details and BVN were accessed and shared by First Bank employees.
This unauthorized access has raised serious concerns about the safety of his personal and financial information.”
The petition also noted that the incident has caused Mr. Akugbe severe emotional distress.
“He is now living in fear of potential threats such as kidnapping and has suffered health complications including high blood pressure, insomnia, and mental stress. His business activities have also been severely disrupted.”
The petition demanded an urgent investigation into the matter and a formal report of findings from the bank.
First Bank, in a response dated January 28, 2025, acknowledged receipt of the complaint. In a letter signed by its legal officer in Abuja, Maria Atoyebi, the bank stated:
“We have taken cognizance of the issues raised by your client, Mr. Izogie Evanni Akugbe, and we are currently investigating the matter. The Bank will respond appropriately based on the outcome of our findings.”
However, three months after the bank’s acknowledgment, Mr. Akugbe told our correspondent that no meaningful update or resolution has been communicated.
He maintains that those responsible for the breach have yet to be identified or held accountable.
