Anonymous, an online network known for launching cyberattacks against government institutions, has taken responsibility for the downtime of the website of First Bank of Nigeria Limited.
A visit to the bank’s website at 01:30pm and at 6:20pm Monday 19th October 2020 showed that it was irresponsive.
Anonymous, however, said it would restore the website after it “keep it down for some time” in solidarity with the #EndSars #EnsPolicsBrutality Protests that entered day 8 today with intense protests recorded in many cities across the country.
In a string of tweets, Anonymous confirmed bringing down the bank’s website while alleging, amongst others, that the bank instructed its staff not to join the #EndSARS campaign.
It stated, “Now #ENDSARSOPPRESSION Official website of First Banks Nigeria has been taken #Offline. You remove money from users because they support #EndSARS.
“We #Anonymous have taken-down your website in support of #EndSARS
“Enjoy your server taken down. no money is gone.”
In a reaction to the allegations, First Bank tweeted, “We wish to state very clearly that First Bank has not banned any staff from joining the protests and will never do so.
“We have continued to lend our voice to end all forms of brutality including Police, Rape and domestic violence.
“Our position remains that deep-rooted Reforms are a fundamental solution we must embrace.”
Anonymous had hacked the websites of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, the Independent National Electoral Commission and the Central bank of Nigeria but restored them.
The #EndSARS protests have been taking place across major cities in the country with youths demanding an end to police brutality and killings Major highways across the country have been blocked thereby grounding economic activities.
(C) Control TV 2020.
