5 December 2011
Commercial activities in Abeokuta are grinding to a halt as commercial banks refused to open for the fifth day for fear of armed robbery attack.
The unanimous decision to close since December 1 in the city was informed by the spate of such attacks on banks at Ifo, Ota, Ijebu-Igbo and Ilaro.
Fearing a spillover effect on Abeokuta , the management of the banks collectively agreed to take the preemptive action.
A tour to Lalubu Road where most of the banks are located, reveals that none opened for business, in spite of the assurances given by Gov. Ibikunle Amosun and he state Police Command.
Some customers who spoke at Kuto Market decried the development, saying that it had caused them grave losses in their respective businesses, and pleaded with the state government to come to the aid of financial institutions in the state.
“No one is safe, it is very ridiculous, the government must wake up to its responsibility by helping these banks,” a trader said.
Adijat Koleoso, a frozen food seller at Kuto market, observed that most of her customers could not patronise her due to the banks’ closure.
A public servant who identified himself as Julius, said: “I have been here since the past week to collect my salary but to no avail. Customers are distressed, even the ATM machines that could have been helpful are not working properly.
However, Police Public Relations Officer Muyiwa Adejobi told NAN that the command had made adequate arrangements to protect lives and property.
He said that the command had also deployed 200 mobile police men into the vicinity of the banks with constant patrols being enforced. (NAN)
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