COVID-19: Why We Shut Our Branches – WEMA Bank

By Akinwale Kasali

Wema Bank Plc has debunked the story making the rounds in the media that no fewer than 50 staff members of bank have been sent to the Lagos State isolation centres for the treatment and management of Coronavirus Disease. The bank says the story is  false.

The company’s Corporate Affairs Executive, Funmi Falola said, “Well I dont know who they spoke to but it is such a lie.

“We have received confirmation of two positive COVID-19 cases in two of our branches nationwide. The infected staff are currently being treated after only displaying mild symptoms.

“In keeping with our commitment to ensure the safety of our customers, staff and community, we have notified customers who visited those branches to get tested.

“In light of this, both branches have been shut down for immediate disinfection and will only be reopened once we certify that it is safe enough for services to resume.

“Customers in the affected areas can continue to carry out transactions using our alternative banking channels – ALAT and *945#. Should you have any issues, you can call our customer service or visit any of our other branches close to you.”

“We implore everyone to keep up good hygiene practices ; do not discriminate or stigmatize infected persons and desist from spreading false information.”

The magazine gathered that the affected branch is the bank’s office at Oba Akran Avenue in Ikeja, which serves as regional and branch office.

Wema banks incident  resulted in the sharp rise of the number of cases recorded by Lagos State, which had dropped below 100 for two consecutive days before rising to 170.