The Nigeria Police Force National Cybercrime Centre (NPF-NCCC) has arrested a 27-year-old woman, Hafsat Abubakar, over her alleged role in the creation and circulation of a forged document falsely claiming that fintech company OPay was shutting down operations.
The suspect was arrested on September 4, 2026, following an investigation into a viral social media post that sparked panic among OPay customers and prompted some users to withdraw funds from the platform.
The police disclosed the development during a press briefing in Abuja, describing the case as a reminder of the growing threat posed by digitally fabricated information capable of disrupting businesses, financial systems, and public confidence.
Investigation and Arrest
Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Anietie Iniedu, said the investigation began after the National Cybercrime Centre received a formal petition from OPay Digital Services Limited regarding a forged publication that falsely portrayed the fintech as preparing to suspend operations.
According to him, investigators deployed digital forensic tools to trace the origin of the publication, which was linked to an X account allegedly operated by the suspect.
“On the 31st of August 2026, the Nigeria Police Force National Cybercrime Centre received a formal petition from OPay Digital Services Limited through the office of the Deputy Inspector-General of Police in charge of the Force Criminal Investigation Department, Abuja, requesting urgent investigation, tracing and apprehension of persons responsible for the creation and circulation of a fraudulent document falsely presented as an official communication issued by OPay Nigeria Limited,” Iniedu said.
The suspect, Hafsat Abubakar, is a graduate of Library and Information Science from Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Kaduna State, which highlights the potential for individuals with various backgrounds to engage in cybercrime activities, emphasizing the need for continued vigilance and education on the importance of cybersecurity.
OPay’s Response
OPay’s Chief Legal Counsel, Akinfolabi Rokosu, said the company reported the matter to security agencies because the false information had the potential to undermine confidence in the financial system and cause significant losses.
He maintained that OPay remains fully operational in Nigeria and warned that those responsible for originating and spreading the false claims would face legal consequences.
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OPay currently operates in four countries—Nigeria, Indonesia, Egypt, and Pakistan—with Nigeria remaining its largest market by a significant margin.
The company’s decision to report the matter to security agencies demonstrates its commitment to protecting its customers and the integrity of the financial system, showcasing the importance of collaboration between private entities and law enforcement in combating cybercrime and maintaining public trust.
Financial Performance
According to the company’s 2025 audited financial statements reviewed by Nairametrics, Nigeria accounted for 88.1% of OPay’s total revenue during the year, while Indonesia contributed 9.9%, Egypt 1.6%, and other markets 0.4%.
The fintech also recorded rapid growth in transaction volumes, processing a Gross Transaction Value (GTV) of $358 billion in 2025, more than double the $166.2 billion reported in 2024, showing its expanding role in Nigeria’s digital payments ecosystem.
The significant growth in transaction volumes shows the increasing adoption of digital payment solutions in Nigeria, driven by the convenience, speed, and security they offer, as well as the expanding reach of fintech companies like OPay, which are playing a key role in promoting financial inclusion and access to financial services.
In the middle of this development, it’s clear that the spread of false information can have significant consequences for businesses and individuals alike, and it’s essential for people to verify information through official channels before sharing or acting on it.
Iniedu added that investigations are ongoing and assured that all persons found culpable would be prosecuted in accordance with the law.
The ongoing investigation serves as a reminder of the importance of holding individuals accountable for their actions in the digital space, and the need for continued efforts to prevent and combat cybercrime, ensuring that the benefits of digital technologies are realized while minimizing their risks.