The Federal High Court in Abuja has dismissed a N100 million lawsuit filed against First City Monument Bank (FCMB) over an alleged breach of privacy and unauthorized processing of personal information.
Justice M. S. Liman delivered the judgment on July 14, 2026, according to the Certified True Copy (CTC) of the ruling obtained by BusinessDay.
The suit was instituted by Anyakora Onyedika Araka, through his counsel, Ahmed Ayomide Esq., seeking several declaratory and injunctive reliefs, as well as N100 million in damages.
The applicant alleged that FCMB unlawfully processed his personal information and opened a bank account in his name without his knowledge, consent, or authority.
FCMB, represented by its counsel, Babatunde Ige Esq., denied the allegations and opposed the application.
Court’s decision
In his judgment, Justice Liman held that the applicant failed to prove with credible and convincing evidence that the bank deliberately or recklessly violated his constitutional rights or unlawfully processed his personal information in a manner warranting the reliefs sought.
The judge noted that where evidence establishes deliberate misuse of personal information, reckless disregard for statutory obligations, identity theft, unauthorized disclosure, fraudulent processing, or substantial harm arising from unlawful data processing, courts will not hesitate to award appropriate constitutional and statutory remedies, including substantial compensatory damages where justified.
However, he emphasized that every case must be determined on its own facts.
Justice Liman found that the evidence before the court showed FCMB acted promptly after the complaint was brought to its attention by investigating the matter and permanently closing the disputed account.
According to the court, such prompt remedial action should be encouraged, while genuine violations should be appropriately sanctioned.
After considering the affidavit evidence, documentary exhibits, legal submissions, and applicable law, the court held that the applicant failed to establish any legal or factual basis for the reliefs sought.
The judge consequently dismissed the application, describing it as devoid of merit.
