The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) says it is working in collaboration with law enforcement agencies in investigating certain questionable financial transactions in some commercial banks operating in the nation. This is a fallout of the financial sleaze linked to some banks in the huge cash transactions ($115m) allegedly orchestrated by former Minister of Petroleum Resources, Mrs. Diezani Alison-Madueke.
The apex bank in a Monday statement by its acting Director, Corporate Communications, Mr. Isaac Okorafor, said: “The CBN wishes to inform all customers of Deposit Money Banks, that it is fully aware and indeed a part of the ongoing investigation of certain financial transactions in some banks by law enforcement authorities.
“The CBN is also carrying out its own special examinations and investigations to ascertain the veracity of some allegations, as well as the extent and persons that maybe involved in such activities.
“The bank will like to reiterate that financial systems stability remains a priority and therefore assures customers and stakeholders that it will not allow the banking system to be used as a conduit for any illicit transaction.
“Some of these investigations are routine and only relate to isolated transactions; therefore, it is important to state that the safety and soundness of the Nigerian Banking Industry remains strong,’’ the statement said.
No fewer than four banks – Fidelity, Sterling, Access and FCMB – have been under the radar of EFCC in recent weeks over the Diezani cash transaction.
