There might be more disruption to banking activities as workers are more worried about their safety.
This is coming in the heels of recurring attacks on banks and staff.
This according to the National President of Association of Senior Staff of Banks, Insurance And Financial Institutions, ASSBIFI, Comrade Olusoji Oluwole.
In a press statement, the Association absolves its members from the current cash crunch saying the situation is beyond their control.
The statement added that bank workers have been dispensing whatever cash is available and expressed sadness that its members are becoming a subject of attacks.
On Saturday 4 February 2023, the banking industry in Nigeria, and in particular lbadan, Oyo State was thrown into disarray with the unwarranted attacks on properties and staff of five banks. This was a fall out from the unverified social media reports accusing banks of being the sole cause for the unavailability of the new designed Naira Notes.
We had, in the past, warned of this happening and raised concerns about the safety of our Members working in banks.
Sadly, this has continued unabated as our Members have been constantly abused, harassed, and even threatened not to come out of their premises at the close of work. The most visual evidence is the video of bank staff in Asaba, Delta State, having to run for their lives through a back channel. Bank branches are currently being forced to close their doors due to their inability to provide the much needed cash to the public.
While we strongly condemn any sharp practices or acts inimical to the smooth disbursement of the New Naira Notes, we call on the public to understand the plight of banks and workers and desist from the continued harassment, and the security agencies to put in place necessary security measures to protect lives and properties within and around bank premises.
As stated in the past, bank workers are committed to ensuring they satisfy bank
customers to the extent of what is made available to them. We are also mindful of the safety of our Members who have expressed fear for their lives and where the attacks and harassment remain uncontrolled, we may be compelled to advise them to stay away from work until their safety is guaranteed.
Signed.
Comrade Olusoji Oluwole
National President
