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Exclusive: GTBank accused of conspiring with SportyBet to defraud customers
Guaranty Trust Bank (GTBank) and an online sports betting platform, SportyBet Nigeria, have been accused of conspiring to withdraw funds from bank customers’ accounts.
The latest victim of this development was a customer of the bank, Baruwa Oladayo Hassan, who accused the Bodija, Ibadan branch of the bank of aiding an unauthorized withdrawal of N500,000.00 from his account by the betting company.
Baruwa told MegaIcon Magazine that he was at the GTBank branch located along UI-Ojoo road to make a transaction at its Automated Teller Machine (ATM) when he received two surprising debit alerts amounting to N500,000.
His words: “On Friday, July 2nd, 2021, I was at GTBank in front of the University of Ibadan main gate. I wanted to withdraw money from the ATM. While I was processing the transaction, I saw one OTP code (One-time password) sent to my phone, but I don’t know what it is all about, so I ignored it, and I continued with my transaction on the ATM. Surprisingly, a minute after I had made the withdrawal, still around the banking premises, I received an unauthorized debit alert of N100 first around 2:03 PM on Friday, with transaction details: – – PG-SP-ORT/PAY LANGSTAN 9999148678 , at the same spot, I got another debit alert of N499,900.00 instantly, also with transaction details: – -PG-SP ORTY/AY LANGSTAN 9999150119.”
He said he rushed into the banking hall to complain but was treated shabbily by the branch manager and his customer service attendants.
“Since last week Friday (July 2nd, 2021), I am yet to get any good response from GTBank,” he lamented. “They cannot expect me to keep quiet; half a million naira isn’t a joke; this is unfair”.
The victim, a graduate of the University of Ibadan (UI), operates a Business Centre in the city. He swore he had no knowledge of betting and had never operated any account with any betting platform, including SportyBet Nigeria.
He continued: “I was amazed because that was not the transaction I made. I entered the banking hall immediately to register my complaint. I approached one of the staff, who checked the transaction on the system. He told me that the money was transferred to one SportyBet. In my life, I have never engaged in betting. So, when I told the staff to continue searching for the money, at least, since he had identified where the money entered.
“Another female staff later joined the staff, and they placed a call to one of the customer care representatives of SportyBet (07008888888) , and the person replied that it is only GTBank that can rectify it. But, the bank feels adamant and unconcerned about the development. The staff declared that the bank could not do anything about the unauthorized transaction. That was on Friday”.
Speaking further, the victim explained that around 5:06 PM on that same Friday, he received a credit alert of a N264.99 refund out of his N500,000. He said the refund transaction email reads: transaction details: |SportyPay refunded Paystack Finance Refund|||Paystack, but he was unable to return to the bank to give updates because it was late. The bank had already closed for the day.
Baruwa accused the bank of desperately trying to twist the story and blaming him for being reckless with his ATM card, to avoid taking responsibility for the loss.
He added: “Funny enough, the bank accused me of being careless with my ATM Card, suggesting that I might have used it with POS, which is not correct, I did not make use of POS in recent times. Immediately I got the debit alert I met with the staff and they asked for my ATM card and phone, which I do use to receive a transaction alert.
“Fortunately, my ATM Card and phone were with me, so I don’t know why they were telling lies that maybe I exposed my card carelessly”, he added.
When asked about the steps taken thus far, Baruwa said, “On Monday, I went to GTBank at UI main gate again to explain to the Manager what my experience was, but he told me that they cannot do anything on the issue. I am psychologically down. I am yet to get myself together as I am talking now because the money isn’t meant for me. On Tuesday, I also visited the bank.
“All that the Branch Manager could do was to refer me to the Operational Manager. They were just tossing me around as he (Operational Manager) directed me to go to the Police station and register my complaint. Immediately, I left the bank for Sango Police Station, where I met an officer who demanded that I pay a certain amount of money before he could embark on any investigation.
“I don’t have money to sort the officer. Please, I want a thorough investigation into this matter. I have been using the bank for over 10 years; I am even surprised that GTBank can do this to me. I know that the money is not safe at home; that was why I brought it to GTBank, and I gave them my trust. They have compromised the trust I gave them. Honestly, I now doubt the bank’s sincerity.
“I am bewildered that a reputable bank that is supposed to trace the unauthorized transaction which came with reference number failed to do the needful, only to apportion unnecessary blames. I expected GTBank to track the final destination of the money. At least from there, they can continue their investigations. But they wanted to shy away from their responsibility. People are now on my neck asking for their money. Where will I get the money to pay these people? I am just a graduate hustling to make a living through my Business Centre. I doubt if GTBank is trustworthy again”, he cried.
Warning fellow customers of the bank to be more vigilant and as well monitor their accounts regularly, he said: “For now, Nigerians need to be careful because we don’t know who is next. I have also heard and read similar nasty experiences, yet the bank has not been doing anything to curtail the situation. The fact is that our money is no longer safe with GTBank.
Continuing, the customer’s statement of account obtained on Tuesday, 13th July 2021, also established the unauthorized transactions.
Checks by Mega Icon Magazine revealed that Baruwa is not the only victim as other GTBank customers had shared the same awful experiences.
On visiting an online complaints platform, https://complaintsdb.com/business/sportybet-nigeria-47923), it was discovered that some customers banking with GTBank had lost monies to the betting platform through fraudulent withdrawals from unauthorized transactions without their permission or consent.
On 7th June 2021, Ejike Chukwualuka Geraldine wrote, “I lost the sum of 500k via my GTBANK account to SPORTYPAY, which I was hearing of for the first time. God bear me witness if GTBANK does not refund me my money and fish out the guy who did this to me, that bank will fold unless God doesn’t exist. People are complaining about this yet GTbank still approves payment for it. It is either Gtbank works hand in hand with them, but I’m sure something fishy is going on. Our money is no longer safe with GTBANK. I almost became suicidal. I suffered to save that money, and yet Gtbank staff treated me like an idiot”, it read in part.
In a related development, on 17th May 2021, another victim, also a GTBank customer, Stanley Ala Halliday lamented that the sum of One hundred and eighty-three thousand naira N183,000.00 was withdrawn from his account by Sportybet without his consent.
“The sum of One hundred and eighty-three thousand naira was hacked by someone from sporty bet organization. On the 14th of May last week. A number called me at +85665149020, immediately I picked the call the whole of my account was wiped within 10 seconds. Pls, I’m begging for something to be done. Please in the name of God”, the victim submitted.
Baruwa, however, called on the EFCC, CBN, human rights organizations, NGOs, Corporate Affairs Commissioners (CAC), among others to intervene in the matter. He also vowed to explore other legal means to have his money refunded.
It was further alleged that SportyBet is using SportyPay as a payment gateway.
Efforts made by Mega Icon Magazine to reach GTBank for comments were unsuccessful.
Even, Mr Ayobami Ladipo,who is said to be the spokesperson of the bank, when contacted yesterday (Tuesday) via his cellphone number and WhatsApp, promised to call back but has not called as of the time of filing this report
The Chairman of the House Committee on the Federal Road Maintenance Agency (FERMA) and representative of Ibarapa East/Ido Federal Constituency in Oyo State, Engr. Aderemi Oseni, on Saturday urged the community to unite in advancing key development projects aimed at transforming Ikogosi.
Speaking at this year’s Ikogosi Day celebration and the launch of a N1 billion development project in Ekiti, the lawmaker, who served as the Chairman of the occasion, emphasised the importance of unity and collective action.
He encouraged attendees to approach the celebration as a call to action for the betterment of their community.
“As we all know, Ikogosi is not merely a town; it is a treasured gem in the heart of Ekiti State and Nigeria as a whole,” he said. “Ikogosi, a historic and vibrant town, plays a vital role in the tourism and economic landscape of Ekiti State. Its rich cultural heritage and unique resources draw visitors and stimulate economic activities that benefit us all.”
“Today is not just a celebration; it is a call to action,” he continued. “Let us come together, united in purpose, to support these transformative projects that promise to uplift the Ikogosi community. I urge everyone here to invest their time, resources, and energy in this endeavor. Together, we can build a legacy of self-help and development that future generations will cherish.”
Reflecting on the broader challenges facing the country, Oseni encouraged the people of Ikogosi and all Nigerians to remain hopeful and resilient, assuring them of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to a brighter future for the nation.
“To the good people of Ikogosi and all citizens of Nigeria, I urge you to remain steadfast and hopeful. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu means well for all Nigerians. The APC-led administration’s Renewed Hope agenda holds the promise of a brighter future. Though the beginnings may be challenging, perseverance will guide us toward a prosperous new Nigeria,” he stated.
In a statement released by his media aide, Idowu Ayodele, the lawmaker lauded the Ekiti State government under Governor Biodun Oyebanji’s leadership for its transformative efforts in governance and development.
He acknowledged the strides made by the governor and praised his impactful initiatives, which have set Ekiti on a progressive path.
“First and foremost, let me commend the Ekiti State government under the leadership of His Excellency, Mr. Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji. The trailblazing development initiatives and effective governance during your tenure have not gone unnoticed,” Oseni remarked.
“Under your stewardship, we have witnessed remarkable progress and commendable governance that have undoubtedly made Ekiti State a shining example of peace and development,” he added.
The Nigerian Minister of Works, David Umahi, has ignited widespread public reaction following his response to recent criticisms by Engr. Aderemi Oseni, Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA).
Oseni, who represents Ibarapa East/Ido Federal Constituency in Oyo State, had accused Umahi of neglecting essential infrastructure needs, alleging that the minister has “no plan for the nation.”
At a committee oversight meeting last Thursday, the lawmaker expressed his frustration over the worsening state of roads across the country.
“You are not here to tell us what we already know in the area of resources,” Oseni stated. “If you are telling us the reason you have failed in fixing our road infrastructure is because of resources, don’t let me take you up on that, because you concentrated your energy as a minister on less priority issues.”
Hon. (Engr.) Aderemi Oseni, representing Ibarapa East/Ido federal constituency of Oyo state
In response, Umahi addressed a press briefing at the ministry’s headquarters in Abuja on Monday, dismissing Oseni’s comments.
He remarked that Oseni “had not attained half of what I have achieved in life” and added that he would “not join issues with the lawmaker” out of respect for the Speaker of the House of Representatives and the National Assembly.
Speaking further, the minister suggested that Oseni was representing contractors affected by recent reforms in the Ministry of Works.
“Let me say that I was not physically present at the meeting, nor was my permanent secretary,” Umahi said. “Nobody can talk to me like that in my presence. It’s not possible.”
Public Outcry: Nigerians Demand Accountability
Umahi’s remarks have drawn backlash on social media, where Nigerians urged him to focus on addressing their concerns about deplorable road conditions rather than deflecting criticisms.
Many expressed frustration with the state of federal roads, calling on the minister to prioritize solutions over defensiveness.
“Mr umahi, ur have actually abandoned our existing roads all over Nigeria and focusing on elephants projects”, commented Daniel Morgan. “Travelling from Southwest to Southeast is now by the special grace of God. Please do something and stop criticizing the messenger and look into the massage.”
Charles Anarado added, “No matter how one may look at this matter, Oseni stands on a sound good point that building a new stretch of road for N15trillion that is more than enough to fix all the bad major roads around the country seems indeed to be a misplaced priority. It’s just like parent using the funds meant for paying his children to school to buy a car to take them to school. His decision may seem good but paying school fees should certainly be his priority”.
Calls for Transparency and Priority on Repairs
Other Nigerians joined the conversation, with some social media users demanding more accountability from the minister.
Nnaemeka Mekah voiced frustration over Umahi’s response to criticism, stating, “This short man takes every criticism as a personal attack. Oga minister, MOST NIGERIAN ROADS ARE IMPASSABLE NOW, and you’re doing absolutely nothing about it. Dunno what else you claim to have achieved in life, but as far as Nigerian toads are concerned, you’re a monumental failure”.
Another user, Nanmah Fanto, supported Oseni’s criticisms, commenting, , “The Reps Committee Chairman, was absolutely correct 2 tell Umahi d truth about accountability n Umahi’s lack of given priority 2 existing bad roads, n concentrating on unimportant road construction. I used 2 think Umahi was wise, until that incident I realized that he wasn’t better at all, he’s also thinking of enriching himself at d detriment of fixing our bad roads. Now, I know better, he shouldn’t be given any more funds until he explains how judiciously he spent d #300 billion given to him”.
Meanwhile, Facebook user, Dapo Oyedele suggested a constructive approach, urging Umahi to respond with facts.
“It’s not about joining issues, it’s accountability. The truth is that federal roads are very bad. But your ministry is doing it’s best. The roads are many… Reply the honourable with facts and figures of what has been done in about one and half years and what’s are your plans to improve the situation of the roads as d minister”.
Nationwide Demand for Effective Solutions
Frustration over Nigeria’s roads continued to echo online, with many demanding that Umahi focus on repairing existing infrastructure.
Ogheneovo Peter William, another Facebook user remarked, “I will join issue Because na bitter the lawmaker tell you, Bad roads every, People are suffering from una bad policies, Them people go still suffer bad road”? he questioned.
“It is not about joining the issue with anyone. It is about fixing the existing roads that we have and stop this white elephant project of Lagos calabar costar road”, a user on Facebook, Sunday Adewuyi Adedokun said.
Continuing, Francis Azuka Obukwelu opined on the ‘blue App’, “He should say something about the bad roads in Nigeria”.
The Chairman, House Committee on Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA), Engr. Aderemi Oseni has made a donation of ten million naira (N10m) towards the Mogajis’ Ile Eke project in Ibadan.
Oseni, who also represents Ibarapa East/Ido Federal Constituency of Oyo State, said the donation is aimed at supporting the Mogajis assembly’s project that holds immense cultural significance for the wider Ibadan community.
According to him, the project will remain a testament to the cultural and historical legacy of Ibadanland as it is expected to preserve the historic relevance of the palace while enhancing its role as a cultural landmark.
In a statement released on Saturday by his media aide, Idowu Ayodele, and made available to newsmen in Ibadan, the lawmaker emphasised the importance of preserving cultural heritage and fostering unity within traditional institutions.
He highlighted that the project would not only elevate the status of the Mogajis’ assembly but also serve as a central hub for promoting Ibadan’s rich cultural history.
“It is a privilege that I was called to be part of the project. If I fail to support it, the project will still be successful, but I believe I have to contribute. My life is dedicated to serving God Almighty, the people, and humanity,” Oseni said.
He further stated, “As a son of the soil, it is my responsibility to contribute to the growth of our shared heritage – Ibadan and by extension, Oyo state as a whole. The Mogajis’ Ile Eke project symbolises our collective identity and unity as a people. This donation is my modest contribution towards ensuring that future generations can connect with their roots.”
