OPay has dismissed viral social media reports claiming that the digital financial services company will shut down operations or go on an indefinite break from September 2026.
The fintech company described the reports as false and malicious, assuring customers that its services remain fully operational.
The controversy followed the circulation of a viral video featuring a self-proclaimed cleric identified as Prophet Barnabas, who made unsubstantiated claims linking OPay to ritual activities and alleged that the platform would eventually crash or freeze customers’ funds.
The video was accompanied by messages and voice notes circulated widely on platforms including WhatsApp and Facebook. Some of the messages urged customers to withdraw their savings from OPay ahead of an alleged September shutdown.
OPay Reacts to Viral Claims
Reacting to the development, OPay said there is no truth to the claim that it is shutting down or going on a break in September 2026.
The company reassured customers that its platform remains operational and that users can continue to access its financial services as usual.
OPay also highlighted its regulatory status, stating that it is fully licensed and regulated by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), while customer deposits are covered by the Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC), subject to applicable terms and coverage.
The fintech firm warned members of the public against relying on unverified information circulating on social media and advised customers to obtain updates only through its official communication channels.
Company Threatens Legal Action
OPay further warned that it would consider legal action against individuals or groups responsible for spreading malicious and misleading information about the company.
The company urged customers not to panic or withdraw funds based on unverified social media claims, stressing the importance of checking information before sharing it.
The development comes amid the rapid spread of financial rumours on social media, where misleading videos, voice notes and forwarded messages can quickly reach thousands of users.
Customers are therefore advised to verify claims about financial institutions directly through official channels before taking any action involving their money.
