Banks and other financial institutions across the country will shut their doors on Thursday, August 1, 2024, as a nationwide hunger strike is set to begin.
Although no official announcements have been made by the banks, conversations with employees revealed that staff have been advised not to report to work on Thursday. This precaution is being taken to monitor the protest and ensure safety.
One banker, speaking with The PUNCH, explained, “You saw what happened during previous protests, banks were targets. We don’t want a repeat of a similar experience, hence we have been advised to monitor the situation first and then decide our next steps.”
A Lagos-based banker simply stated, “I’m not going to work tomorrow,” when asked about their plans.
Another banker mentioned they had not received specific advice but were told to exercise caution during their commute.
In a communication to customers titled “Business Continuity Amid Planned Protest,” Pension Fund Administrator Leadway Pensure announced, “Due to the planned nationwide protest starting August 1, 2024, please be informed that all our offices will be closed on Thursday, August 1, 2024, and Friday, August 2, 2024, at the first instance as we monitor the situation.” The PFA encouraged customers to use digital channels for transactions.
Asset Management firm Meristem Securities Limited also issued a closure notice to customers, stating, “Dear esteemed client, due to the upcoming nationwide protest tomorrow, this is to inform you that all our offices in Lagos, Port Harcourt, and Abuja will be closed on Thursday, 1st August 2024. We will closely monitor the situation and provide further communication, depending on the developments of the protest.” Customers were advised to reach the firm via online channels.
In an exclusive interview with The PUNCH, the President of the National Union of Banks, Insurance, and Financial Institutions Employees, Anthony Abakpa, said, “Banks will monitor the national planned protest closely and see how it plays out. The regulatory body has not given express approval to close any of the bank operations amid the protest. Banks cannot close shop without the express approval of the Central Bank of Nigeria. We will monitor closely while advising our members to exercise extra caution and stay safe during and after the protest.”
