CBN Warns Nigerians Over Fake Messages, Rising Cyber Hack Attempts on Bank Accounts

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has issued a fresh alert to Nigerians over increasing cyber hack attempts targeting personal and bank accounts through fraudulent messages and emails falsely claiming to originate from the apex bank.

In a statement signed by its Acting Director of Corporate Communications, Hakama Sidi Ali, the regulator said it had identified a surge in phishing attacks designed to deceive members of the public and gain access to sensitive personal information.

According to the CBN, the fraudulent communications—circulating via emails, SMS, and online platforms—often contain misleading claims about the bank’s leadership, licensing activities, and policy decisions, while prompting recipients to click on suspicious links.

The apex bank warned that such messages are crafted to trick unsuspecting users into revealing confidential details such as banking credentials, passwords, and verification codes, which can then be used to compromise accounts.

“The official website of the Central Bank of Nigeria remains www.cbn.gov.ng. Members of the public are strongly advised to refrain from clicking links or sharing personal information on suspicious websites,” the statement said.

The CBN urged Nigerians to always verify the authenticity of any communication purportedly from the bank through its official website and recognised media platforms, stressing that it does not request sensitive information via unsolicited messages.

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It also advised the public to report any suspected fraudulent emails, websites, or messages to law enforcement agencies and relevant authorities for prompt action.

The warning comes amid a broader rise in cybersecurity threats in Nigeria’s financial sector, as increased digital banking adoption continues to attract cybercriminal activity.

In response, the CBN said it is strengthening its cybersecurity frameworks in collaboration with financial institutions, law enforcement agencies, and other regulators to safeguard the integrity of the financial system.

Recent developments have heightened concerns over digital vulnerabilities. On April 15, the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) confirmed a cyberattack on its information systems, raising alarms about data security within critical government platforms.

Similarly, the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) recently launched an investigation into an alleged data breach involving Remita Payment Services Limited and Sterling Bank, alongside other entities.

Experts say these incidents highlight the urgent need for stronger digital protection measures, as cybercriminals increasingly exploit weak security practices and user vulnerabilities.

The CBN reiterated its commitment to protecting Nigerians’ financial data and urged individuals and organisations to remain vigilant, adopt secure online practices, and promptly report suspicious activities to prevent financial losses.

CBN Raises Alarm Over Fake Messages, Cyber Hack Attempts on Nigerians’ Accounts

BREAKING: Power Minister Steps Down, Eyes Oyo 2027 Election

Nigeria’s Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, has officially resigned from office to pursue his long-standing ambition of contesting the Oyo State governorship election, bringing days of speculation to an end.

In a resignation letter dated April 22, 2026, and addressed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Adelabu said his decision was driven by the need to fully concentrate on his gubernatorial bid in line with the provisions of the Amended Electoral Act 2026, which requires political office holders to step down before seeking elective positions.

The letter was submitted through the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, following a meeting between the former minister and the President on Tuesday, where he formally communicated his intention to exit the Federal Executive Council (FEC).

“My decision to step down is informed by my intention to focus fully on my gubernatorial ambition in Oyo State,” Adelabu stated, noting that the aspiration dates back to 2016 during his tenure as Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria.

A member of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Adelabu previously contested the Oyo State governorship election in 2023 under the Accord Party but lost to incumbent governor, Seyi Makinde of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

During his tenure, Adelabu said his administration implemented power sector reforms aimed at stabilising Nigeria’s electricity market, including tariff adjustments and a N4 trillion debt restructuring programme.

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According to him, these measures significantly boosted market revenue—from about N1 trillion in 2023 to N1.7 trillion in 2024 and N2.3 trillion in 2025—while improving investor confidence and setting the sector on a path toward long-term sustainability.

He also cited progress in rural electrification and renewable energy deployment, which expanded access to electricity in underserved communities, including schools and healthcare facilities across the country.

Despite these gains, Adelabu acknowledged that the sector continues to face critical challenges such as gas supply constraints, infrastructure vandalism, and inefficiencies across the electricity value chain.

To address these issues, he recommended the implementation of cost-reflective tariffs with targeted subsidies for vulnerable Nigerians, recapitalisation of distribution companies, accelerated nationwide metering, and sustained investment in transmission infrastructure to improve grid stability.

He further proposed the creation of a Coordinating Minister for Energy to oversee strategic alignment across power, gas, water resources, and environmental sectors, noting that such integration would enhance both thermal and hydroelectric power generation.

Adelabu’s resignation is widely seen as part of early political realignment ahead of the 2027 elections, particularly in Oyo State, where he is expected to be a key contender.

The Presidency is expected to announce a replacement or interim leadership for the Ministry of Power to ensure continuity in ongoing reforms and projects within the sector.

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Court Remands Six Alleged Coup Plotters in DSS Custody

The Federal High Court in Abuja has ordered that six alleged coup plotters be remanded in the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS) after they were arraigned on a 13-count charge bordering on alleged terrorism.

The defendants were brought before the court on Wednesday in proceedings that began at about 1:46 p.m. The Attorney-General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi, informed the court that the charges were ready and requested that they be formally read to the accused persons.

The hearing was briefly delayed after the third defendant informed the court that his lawyer was unavailable, while counsel to the sixth defendant told the court that his client understood only Arabic and Hausa. This prompted the court to temporarily stand down proceedings to arrange for an interpreter to ensure proper understanding of the charges.

When proceedings resumed at about 2:18 p.m., all six defendants entered their pleas and denied the allegations, pleading not guilty to all 13 counts of terrorism-related offences linked to the alleged coup plot.

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Following the arraignment, the prosecution counsel applied for the defendants—described in court proceedings as alleged coup plotters—to be remanded in DSS custody, arguing that their continued detention was necessary to support ongoing investigations and ensure effective prosecution of the case. The prosecution also urged the court to grant an accelerated hearing, a request that was largely not opposed by defence counsel, although counsel to the first defendant indicated plans to file a bail application.

In its ruling, the trial judge granted the request for an accelerated hearing and ordered that the six alleged coup plotters remain in DSS custody while granting them access to their legal representatives.

The court subsequently adjourned the matter to April 27, 2026, for the commencement of trial proceedings.

Security sources say the case forms part of broader efforts to address alleged threats to Nigeria’s national security, though full details of the alleged coup plot have not been made public.

The DSS is expected to continue holding the suspects as the case proceeds through the judicial process.

Court Remands Six Alleged Coup Plotters in DSS Custody