Fidelity Bank Challenges Nigerian Data Protection Commission’s Fine

Fidelity Bank has strongly disputed the allegations of a data breach that led to a significant fine imposed by the Nigerian Data Protection Commission (NDPC). The bank was fined ₦555.8 million for allegedly violating data protection laws, a charge that the bank vehemently denies.

The NDPC’s action stems from an incident where a customer's details were allegedly used to open an account without consent. According to Fidelity Bank, the account in question was never operational due to incomplete documentation. Meksley Nwagboh, Fidelity Bank's Divisional Head of Brand and Communications, asserted that the bank adhered to the highest ethical standards and fully complied with the country’s data protection laws.

The controversy began when the NDPC claimed that the bank’s failure to follow due process led to the unauthorized account opening. However, Fidelity Bank clarified that upon receiving an online request to open the account, it immediately flagged the account for incomplete documentation and placed it on "Post No Debit" status, preventing any transactions.

Despite providing evidence of its compliance, including blocking and eventually closing the account, the NDPC proceeded with the fine. Fidelity Bank has since engaged in further discussions with the commission, maintaining that no laws were breached, and the fine is unjustified.

This dispute highlights the growing scrutiny of data protection practices in Nigeria as regulatory bodies intensify efforts to enforce compliance. The outcome of this case could set a significant precedent for how data protection laws are enforced in the country.

Fidelity Bank continues to explore all avenues to resolve the issue, emphasizing its commitment to upholding the trust and confidence of its customers by protecting their data with the utmost diligence.