Tobias Sylvester
Ogun State Bankers’ Forum has announced the closure of all banks in the state following the destruction of bank buildings by residents protesting the Naira scarcity.
KanyiDaily had reported how Keystone and Union banks were set ablaze during a protest on Monday over the scarcity of naira in the country.
In a communique issued today, February 21, all the banks in Ogun were asked to shut down pending when there is improved security of bank operators and bank buildings in the state.
It reads, “Dear Ogun Bankers, You are aware of the massive destructions of all Commercial Banks buildings and other properties yesterday Monday 20th of February, 2023 in Sagamu axis of the State. We thank the Almighty God for the safety of our colleagues during the violent attack.
“While we have held meetings with the State Executives with full assurances of improved security, we feel saddened that the response of the security operatives was absent until all banks were destroyed before decisive actions were taken.
“It is a common saying in our land that a death that kills one’s Neighbour is only telling you a proverb that it will soon be your turn.
“Recall that within the spate of two weeks, we have had related attacks in Sapon and Asero areas of Abeokuta, Sango Ota axis, Mowe/Ibafo axis, Ijebu Ode was averted on Friday for the prompt and timely intervention of the Military in the ancient city.
“While we were thinking the end has come to these senseless attacks, we were all taken by surprise with yesterday burning, destruction and looting of banks furnitures, fittings, computers even the Air Conditioners.
“Since we have just a life to live, the leadership of Ogun Bankers’ Forum has advised that all bank branches within the State be shut down pending when we are assured of improved security of bank operators and banks buildings in the State.
“We recognize the need to satisfy our customers most of whom are not part of these dastard acts vis-a-vis meeting the Financial Year budgets and other KPIs; however more important to us is the safety of our members operating in the State.
“We urge all to maintain safety first while we engage the State Government and relevant agencies on security matters.
“Further directive shall be provided later today via this same channel. It’s a trying time and we know that this time will soon pass. We thank you all!”
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KanyiDaily had also reported how some riotous protesters carted away the mace at the Sagamu Local Government secretariat in Ogun State.
