Access Bank Plc has dismissed allegations of missing funds and unethical behaviour raised in a viral video circulating on social media.
The bank, in a formal statement issued on Sunday, described the claims as “untrue” and “baseless,” reaffirming its focus on maintaining the safety and security of customers’ funds.
The controversy began when a social media influencer, Martins Otse, popularly known as “VeryDarkMan,’ alleged that N500 million belonging to the family of a deceased customer was unaccounted for in their Access Bank account.
According to Otse, the deceased individual had reportedly informed his family about funds held across various accounts, including the said amount with Access Bank.
In its response, Access Bank refuted the claims, stating, “There is no N500 million or any other fund or amount missing from the subject customer’s account or from any other customer’s account with us.”
The bank further clarified that it operates with the highest ethical standards, adding that it had thoroughly investigated the allegations alongside other independent stakeholders in the banking sector, who all reached the same conclusion.
The statement also noted the importance of relying on verified information, saying, “We must advise the public not to rely on or believe sensational and unverified claims that are designed to titillate and mislead the public.”
Addressing issues over the allegations, Access Bank reiterated its stand on protecting customer interests while respecting privacy laws. The bank assured the public that it remains fully committed to serving its customers with transparency and integrity.
Even with the bank’s clarification, Martins Otse has challenged the institution’s response. He questioned discrepancies in the deceased customer’s bank statements, writing, “I just saw your response to the allegations of the missing 500 million naira from a dead client account. My first question to Access Bank is, why did the bank statement skip from 2016 to 2020? Where are the statements of 2017, 2018, and 2019?”
The allegations led to different reactions on social media, with users calling for more clarity and accountability. Although Access Bank continues to urge customers and the public to disregard unfounded claims.
