Fidelity Bank has refuted the Nigeria Data Protection Commission’s (NDPC) claims of a data breach, stating that there is no evidence to support the accusations. The bank was fined ₦555.8 million for allegedly using a customer’s details to open an account without consent. However, Fidelity Bank asserts that its internal investigation found the account opening process was incomplete due to missing documentation.
According to the bank, accounts created online without full documentation, such as a passport photograph and BVN, are placed on “Post No Debit” status and closed after 30 days if the documents are not provided. Fidelity Bank closed the account in question after the applicant failed to submit the required documents within the stipulated period.
The situation escalated after a Pre-Action meeting with the NDPC in July 2023, where the bank presented its case. Despite this, the NDPC imposed a fine, which increased from ₦250 million to ₦555.8 million. Fidelity Bank continues to dispute the penalty, reaffirming its commitment to data protection and corporate governance while seeking further dialogue with the NDPC.
