Two women have been remanded in correctional custody after the Nigeria Police Force arraigned them over an alleged social-media publication claiming that Access Bank Plc would shut down its banking operations from September 23, 2026.
The defendants, Iderenyin Samuel Umoh and Fineness Monday Esu, appeared before Justice Akintayo Aluko of the Federal High Court in Lagos on a three-count charge involving conspiracy and alleged transmission of false information.
Police prosecutors alleged that the defendants, together with other persons said to be at large, circulated the message through Facebook and WhatsApp, urging Access Bank customers to close their accounts and withdraw their funds before the purported shutdown.
Both defendants pleaded not guilty.
According to the charge, the alleged publication was transmitted on or about July 28, 2026.
Police alleged that the defendants knew the information was false and circulated it in circumstances capable of causing fear, public alarm or a breakdown of law and order.
Prosecutors relied, among other provisions, on Sections 24 and 27 of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act 2015, as amended in 2024, as well as Section 59 of the Criminal Code Act.
After the pleas were taken, prosecution counsel Stanley Nwafoaku asked the court to remand the defendants pending trial.
Counsel appearing for the defence sought a short date to enable the defendants to file formal applications for bail.
Justice Aluko consequently ordered their remand in the custody of the Nigerian Correctional Service and adjourned the substantive case until November 25, 2026, while indicating that any bail application would receive an expedited hearing.
The prosecution places renewed focus on Nigeria’s evolving legal treatment of online speech and false information.
It also demonstrates how a message distributed through ordinary social-media channels can move rapidly from a viral post into a criminal prosecution where authorities allege that the publication poses broader consequences for public order or a financial institution.
The allegations have not been proven, and the defendants remain presumed innocent unless and until convicted by a competent court.
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