Access Bank PLC has denied allegations of withholding ₦500 million belonging to a deceased customer, calling the claims “untrue and baseless.” The controversy began after social media influencer VeryDarkMan accused the bank of unethical practices in a viral video. According to the allegations, the family of the late customer, Mr. Edongesi Edith Hour, had submitted a Letter of Administration but was met with resistance from Access Bank, which allegedly provided inconsistent information about the account balance. This sparked outrage online, prompting the bank to issue a formal statement .
In its statement, Access Bank assured the public that the safety and security of its customers’ funds remain top priorities. The bank explained that independent investigations, involving external stakeholders within the banking industry, confirmed that no funds were missing from the account in question or any other accounts under its management. It also emphasized its commitment to ethical operations and transparency, urging the public not to rely on sensational or unverified claims meant to mislead .
The allegations centered on claims that Access Bank initially denied the existence of the account and later declared it dormant with a balance of just 54 kobo. VeryDarkMan accused the bank of withholding transaction records and called for a broader investigation into its practices. The influencer highlighted that while the family successfully recovered funds from other banks, they faced persistent challenges with Access Bank, casting doubts on the bank’s accountability .
Access Bank reiterated its strict adherence to privacy laws and ethical banking standards. It encouraged customers and stakeholders to approach such matters with caution, especially in an era of misinformation. The bank maintained that it has engaged with the concerned parties and will continue to address any unresolved issues in a transparent and professional manner .
This case has sparked a broader discussion about inheritance and the challenges faced by families when dealing with financial institutions after the death of loved ones. Advocates have called for reforms to make the process of recovering deceased customers’ funds more efficient and transparent, ensuring families do not face unnecessary hurdles during difficult times .
While Access Bank has firmly denied the allegations, the situation remains a topic of public debate. Many Nigerians are awaiting further clarification, as the incident has raised concerns about the reliability of banking systems and the protection of customers’ assets. The controversy underscores the importance of public trust in financial institutions and the need for clear communication during disputes of this nature .
