The Department of State Services (DSS) and the Nigeria Police Force have commenced investigations into the circulation of a fake notice claiming that digital payment platform OPay would shut down its operations from September 1, 2026.
The fabricated document, titled “Official Note,” circulated widely on social media and claimed that OPay would stop processing transactions and providing account services indefinitely from September 1.
However, OPay dismissed the purported notice as false, assuring customers that its operations remained fully active.
OPay’s Head of Corporate Communications, Folayemi Joshua, described the document as “completely false”, urging customers and members of the public to rely only on the company’s official communication channels for information about its operations.
The company also identified several inconsistencies in the fake document, including the use of an outdated logo, a misspelt brand name and a layout that differed from its recognised official communications.
OPay’s Chief Legal Counsel, Akinfolabi Rokosu, confirmed that the company was working with the DSS and the Nigeria Police Force to identify the source and circumstances surrounding the circulation of the false information.
The authorities warned against the deliberate circulation of fabricated information, particularly content capable of triggering public panic, financial disruption and reputational damage.
Iniedu urged members of the public to verify sensitive information through official channels before sharing it, stressing that the investigation was still ongoing.
He added that anyone found culpable would face prosecution upon the conclusion of the investigation.
OPay also warned that individuals who deliberately spread false information concerning its operations could face legal action.
