Commercial banks in Lagos witnessed massive patronage as customers rushed to make withdrawal of cash in preparation for the planned nationwide strike by organised labour, the organised labour proposed like action is part of its activities to protest removal of fuel subsidy by the Federal Government.
At all automated Teller Machines (ATMs) of the banks visited, our correspondents observed a huge crowd at First Bank, UBA, Oceanic Bank, Intercontinental and GTBank branches in Ikotun-Iyana-Ipaja axis of Lagos. There were also crowds at Zenith and Keystone Bank branches in high-brow areas of Ikeja and Maryland.
“This strike does not seem to be like any other one we have had before. The air is filled with so much uncertainty. The Federal Government may remain adamant and something tells me that Labour won’t take things easy this time. I’m kind of scared, frankly,” a customer, said.
Another customer at Keystone Bank (former BankPHB), Maryland said the warnings by Labour was clear enough, adding that he would not want to be stranded while the strike lasted.
Organised labour said we should stock up foodstuffs in our houses and that is why I am here. I need to hold some cash while the strike lasts because the banks may also join the strike, as there is no moral reason for any Nigerian to opt out.