In a statement released on Thursday, NPF spokesperson Ani Iniedu confirmed that the arrest occurred on September 4, following a viral post urging customers to withdraw their funds from OPay.
The misleading notification claimed that OPay would cease operations on September 1, prompting widespread concern among users. OPay quickly dismissed the claims as false and threatened legal action against the individual responsible for the post.
The police launched a digital forensic investigation to trace the origin of the hoax. The inquiry pinpointed Hafsat as the source, linking her to the post made via her X handle, @haifah_er_abba.
The investigation revealed that the false notice was also shared through another X handle, @CUTE_HAFSERH, where Hafsat tagged social media influencers and urged followers to "REMOVE YOUR MONEY NOW."
Iniedu reported that the misleading post garnered approximately 572,000 views shortly after publication, amplifying its impact on the public.
Authorities seized three Apple mobile phones from Hafsat as part of the investigation. Ongoing inquiries aim to clarify how the false notice was created and disseminated, as well as to identify any accomplices involved.
The police stated that Hafsat, along with anyone else found complicit, would face legal charges once the investigation concludes.
This incident underscores the growing concern over misinformation on social media and its potential to disrupt financial services, prompting calls for stricter regulation and accountability online.
The NPF continues to emphasize the importance of responsible social media use, urging users to verify information before sharing it to prevent panic and misinformation.
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