A storm of controversy has erupted on social media after the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) allegedly blocked a Nigerian citizen on X (formerly Twitter) for demanding accountability over what many describe as the “daylight robbery” by commercial banks and network providers.
The user, identified as @MFaarees_, on Monday, September 15, took to the microblogging platform to call out the apex bank, accusing commercial banks of colluding with telecommunication companies to exploit ordinary Nigerians through unfair charges.
> “Nigerian commercial banks, in collaboration with network providers, are exploiting Nigerian citizens. They charge us for unsuccessful USSD transactions, which are literally their fault. This is unfair, and we Nigerians want it to stop! Everyone repost and tag @cenbank and other relevant authorities,” he posted.
Hours later, to his shock, the activist discovered that the official verified account of the CBN, @cenbank, had blocked him. He shared the screenshot, writing:
> “So the Central Bank of Nigeria blocked me simply because I asked them to take action against the way commercial banks and network providers are exploiting us Nigerian citizens! Does this mean the CBN is also with them? Who do we trust?! This is very unprofessional!”
His posts quickly went viral, sparking outrage among Nigerians who also recounted their bitter experiences with failed USSD transactions and unexplained deductions.
Another X user, @clems4luv, narrated:
> “Just two days ago, I tried to make a transaction from my Union Bank account using USSD. Despite six failed attempts, @MTNNG kept deducting ₦6 each time. It is truly expensive to be a Nigerian citizen.”
Similarly, @all_abt_alamin accused the CBN of complicity, stating:
> “When I say @cenbank is fully aware of the exploitation taking place by these so-called banks and network providers, you might not agree. But this is a clear indication they are part of the deal. Instead of addressing the issue, they block people. How many Nigerians will they block?”
The incident has opened fresh debate on digital banking transparency, financial exploitation, and freedom of expression, with some legal experts even advising @MFaarees_ to seek legal redress.
In response, the embattled user declared:
> “I think I will sue these people! ’Cause how can you block a concerned citizen, for God’s sake? Where do we go if we ever feel exploited by commercial banks? Lawyers in the house, any advice?”
He later added in frustration:
> “The forces of evil have united against innocent citizens of Nigeria! So help us God!”
The Central Bank is yet to issue an official response to the allegation of blocking a citizen on social media, but pressure is mounting on the apex financial regulator to address the core issue of exploitative bank charges and restore public trust.
PIONEER NEWS 