By Nworisa Michael
A Nigerian man, Aliyu Tunde Muhammad Elyaqub, has narrated how he returned ₦2.26 million that was mistakenly transferred into his Opay account, drawing attention to issues of integrity and the risks associated with digital banking transactions.
Elyaqub shared the experience on his Facebook page, explaining that he received an unexpected credit alert and initially waited, expecting the sender to make contact. Shortly after, he received a call from a distressed individual who admitted the transfer was made in error.
According to him, the caller pleaded for help and confirmed the exact amount sent. Elyaqub said he reassured the sender and immediately returned the full sum to the same account.
He added that the sender later transferred ₦50,000 as a gesture of appreciation, but he declined the offer and refunded it, stating that he did not expect any reward for doing what he considered the right thing.
Reflecting on the incident, Elyaqub raised concerns about the use of fintech platforms for large financial transactions. He questioned the potential risks if such funds were sent to the wrong person or to accounts with restrictions, noting that recovery processes can be difficult for many users.
While acknowledging that fintech services are regulated by financial authorities, he stressed the need for improved awareness and easier mechanisms for reversing mistaken transfers.
The incident has since sparked conversations online about honesty, financial responsibility, and the growing reliance on digital banking platforms in Nigeria.
