Bank customers in Kafanchan, Kaduna State on Tuesday besieged Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) to make withdrawals before the commencement of the 15-hour curfew imposed on the town. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the town had been on 24-hour curfew since Friday which was relaxed on Monday by nine hours to allow the residents replenish their food stock and other needs.
A visit to some of the ATMs located in the town showed long queues of customers wanting to withdraw money as the banks remained closed due to the tense security situation.
Some of the customers said they had been on the queue for more than three hours and were yet get access to the machines.
Ms Hauwa Ibrahim, a health worker, said that although her September salary was paid into her account since Friday, she was unable to access the money due to the curfew.
``I have been on the queue since 9 a.m and its almost 12 noon because of the unprecedented crowd wanting to withdraw at the ATM,’’ she said.
Ibrahim urged bank officials to stock the ATMs with enough cash to avoid disappointing customers who joined the long queue.
Mr Silvanus Gambo, a civil servant told NAN that he needed money to cater for his family needs, adding, ``it is risky to stay without cash in times like this’’.
Mr Shehu Mohammed, a businessman said he was not bothered by the long queue as he was sure of getting his money.
``Few days ago, no one could go out to queue in the public, as we all remained at home without cash and living in fear,’’ he said.
A bank official, who pleaded anonymity, said that the banks would remain closed until the security situation in the area improves.
NAN reports that the residents were free to move about from 7a.m to 4p.m after which they must remain at home for the next 15 hours.
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