Globus Bank

Globus Bank Fraudulent Withdrawal – Firm Demands N10bn in Damages

Haril Global Solutions Limited has filed a lawsuit against Globus Bank Limited, requesting that the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court order the bank to pay N10 billion in general damages for an alleged breach of a loan contract, among other grievances. This case, filed under the writ of summons number CV/1456/2024, outlines serious accusations against the bank, claiming unauthorized transactions and a failure to adhere to the agreed terms of their loan agreement.

According to Haril Global’s attorney, Pelumi Olajengbesi, Esq, the bank not only breached the loan contract but also communicated with Access Bank, Fidelity Bank, and Wema Bank, allegedly providing false information. This communication led these banks to place a “post no debit” restriction on all accounts held by Haril Global Solutions with them, severely impacting the company’s financial operations.

Oluwaseun Onobun, a Director at Haril Global, provided a detailed statement on oath. He recounted that on December 7, 2021, Globus Bank extended an overdraft loan facility of N500 million to Haril Global to support its working capital, with a repayment period of one year. However, issues began when the bank allegedly conducted multiple unauthorized transactions on Haril Global’s account. These actions, according to the company, were not only unauthorized but also detrimental to their business operations.

Specifically, Haril Global is demanding the court to mandate the bank to return N26.076 million and N15 million, which were allegedly withdrawn without authorization on January 31 and February 6, 2024, respectively. These withdrawals were particularly troubling because they occurred despite a “post-no-debit” order on the account, which should have prevented any transactions. As a result of these actions, Haril Global claims it was unable to conduct its business effectively.

In response, Globus Bank, through a counter affidavit filed by Tamunosiki Wakama, a litigation clerk, argued that the reliefs sought by Haril Global are not in the interest of justice and should be dismissed. The bank maintains that their actions were justified and within legal bounds, challenging the allegations of unauthorized transactions and misrepresentation to other banks.

The FCT High Court has scheduled the hearing for this case on January 13 and 14, 2025. This lawsuit highlights the serious financial and operational impact that disputes over banking practices and loan agreements can have on businesses. Both parties are preparing to present their cases, with Haril Global seeking substantial damages for what it claims is a significant breach of trust and contractual terms by Globus Bank. The outcome of this case will likely have important implications for banking practices and business operations in Nigeria.