Ecobank clarifies reports of lawyer’s detention, sets record straight on court proceedings

Ecobank
Ecobank clarifies reports of lawyer’s detention, sets record straight on court proceedings
Ecobank Nigeria has clarified reports circulating in sections of the media that one of its staff members, Mr. Ridwan Abdulwahab, was detained following court proceedings at the Chief Magistrate Court, Wuse Zone 6, Abuja, on September 11, 2025.
In a statement today, the bank explained that the matter in question stemmed from a legal dispute between two of its customers over a judgment debt. A Garnishee Order Absolute had been served, but subsequent related cases and appeals led to a temporary freeze on the release of the funds pending the resolution of ongoing litigation.
To resolve the matter in compliance with judicial procedure, Ecobank said it initiated court proceedings, which culminated in the matter that came up on the referenced date.
In its clarification, the bank stressed that contrary to media reports and online videos, its counsel, Mr. Abdulwahab, was never detained or remanded in custody. “At no point was he arrested, detained, or deprived of his liberty,” Ecobank stated.
The bank further disclosed that the parties involved executed Terms of Settlement, which were adopted by the court as a consent judgment on the same day. Any purported remand order was vacated, and Mr. Abdulwahab was formally discharged from the suit.
“For the avoidance of doubt, Mr. Abdulwahab was never detained—contrary to the misleading reports circulated in some media outlets,” the bank emphasized.
Ecobank Nigeria reaffirmed its commitment to upholding due process, cooperating fully with judicial authorities, and safeguarding the interests of its employees, customers, and corporate integrity.