In recent times, more Nigerians have had their bank accounts suddenly blocked due to allegations that they were beneficiaries of fraudulent transactions. This often happens even if you were not the original fraudster, and sadly, many people don’t know how to respond or reclaim access to their funds legally.
If your bank tells you that your account has been frozen because it received money linked to a fraud investigation, and that you must “get a court order” or “come in to explain yourself,” don’t panic — but don’t go in blindly either.
This guide walks you through the correct steps to reclaim your bank account, and protect yourself from further complications.
1. Understand Why Your Account Was Frozen
Even if you’re not the actual fraud suspect, your account can be frozen if any funds traceable to fraudulent activities land in it. This makes you what the law calls a “secondary beneficiary” — someone who received proceeds from fraud, whether knowingly or unknowingly.
2. Never Go to the Bank Alone — Get a Lawyer First
If your bank says there’s a court order, don’t just walk in hoping to fix it by explaining yourself.
Engage a lawyer who can formally request the suit number (case number) from the bank or through your account officer. This gives you a legal way to access details about the court order.
3. Request a Certified True Copy (CTC) of the Court Order
With the suit number in hand, your lawyer can then apply to the court to obtain the Certified True Copy (CTC) of the court order and accompanying documents. These will help determine:
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Who filed the case
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Why was your account affected
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Which law enforcement agency is investigating
4. Prepare for Law Enforcement Involvement
Your lawyer should write formally to the law enforcement agency (e.g., EFCC or Police) handling the matter. It’s also advisable to go with your lawyer if a visit is necessary.
Important: Go prepared to apply for bail — this protects you in case the agency tries to detain you unexpectedly.
5. Gather All Transaction Evidence
Before engaging the EFCC or Police, print and organize:
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All your account statements
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Receipts and documentation for any funds you received
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Screenshots of messages or payment requests if relevant
These documents will help show that you are not involved in any fraudulent activity and that the money in question has a legitimate source.
6. If Your Story Checks Out, the Bank Will Be Directed to Unfreeze Your Account
If the investigating agency (EFCC or Police) is satisfied with your explanation and evidence, they will write to the bank to lift the lien on your account.
7. If They Refuse to Release Your Account — Sue
If you provide all relevant evidence and are still being denied access to your account without reason, your lawyer should proceed to sue both the bank and the agency involved.
You can also claim damages for the inconvenience and any financial losses suffered during the time your account was frozen.
8. If You Can’t Defend the Source of Funds — You May Lose Them
If you can’t convincingly explain the source of the suspicious funds, you may be asked to forfeit the money to the victim of the fraud. In many cases, this ends the matter, but you will lose the funds in question and may still face legal consequences.
9. Always Speak to Your Lawyer First
At every step, never go it alone. Legal processes involving fraud investigations are complex, and missteps can lead to arrests, defamation, or even imprisonment.
Always consult with your lawyer before approaching the bank, police, or EFCC.
Final Thoughts
Having your account frozen is scary, but it’s not the end. With the right legal guidance, clear documentation, and a calm head, you can prove your innocence and reclaim your money.
Fraudulent transactions affect many innocent people daily — protect yourself by knowing your rights and always keeping clean financial records.
