First Bank of Nigeria has denied allegations of fraud leveled against it by a customer and published in some media outlets.

In a statement, Olayinka Ijabiyi, Acting Group Head of Marketing & Corporate Communications at First Bank of Nigeria Limited, said the bank’s findings indicate unprofessional and unethical dealings between Dr. Agbai Eke and a former FirstBank employee, involving a personal relationship to facilitate unauthorized transactions outside the bank’s knowledge or involvement.

The corporate statement reads in part:

“We have been made aware of a recent publication by ThisDay Newspaper, Arise Television, and a circulating video regarding a court case filed by a customer, Dr. Agbai Eke, against FirstBank.

“We can affirm that the allegations of fraud within the bank, as alluded to by Dr. Agbai Eke, are entirely unfounded and false. Our findings on the matter indicate unprofessional and unethical dealings between Dr. Agbai Eke and a former FirstBank employee, involving a personal relationship to facilitate unauthorized transactions outside the bank’s knowledge or involvement.”

The bank added:

As the matter is currently before the court, we will refrain from further comments to allow the court to dispassionately determine the issues before it. The bank has also filed a report with law enforcement for further investigation, and the suspects have made useful statements while inquiries are ongoing.

“FirstBank remains committed to transparency, accountability, and the protection of its customers’ interests. We assure our stakeholders that we operate with the highest standards of integrity and professionalism.” (Nigerian Tribune)