Nigeria’s first local crypto exchange, Patricia’s CEO Fejiro Hanu, has denied rumors that the exchange has been shut down. He stated that these reports were merely a media play for clicks. Hanu confirmed that the exchange is still active and continues its normal operations.
Hanu Responds to Claims About Crypto Exchange Closing
In an article on X, during interviews with media outlets, and even in information sharing, Hanu expressed his disappointment that his views were distorted and presented to suit their own agendas. According to him, “Good news does not attract attention as quickly as bad news. That’s why everyone immediately jumps on a story for clicks.”
A hacking incident in May 2023 led to a thorough review of Patricia Technologies, resulting in significant loss of customer funds.
Although the company stated that customer funds were secure, since April 2023, users have consistently faced difficulties accessing their funds. These access issues have increased concerns about withdrawing funds and thus spread fears among customers with funds locked on the platform, leading to speculation about potential exit scams.
Media Outlets Blamed
In his latest post, Hanu voiced his disappointment that media outlets, despite his interviews and sharing information, twisted the narrative to attract more attention and tailor it to their agendas. In response to customer demands, Patricia secured future repayments by converting customer assets into their local Patricia Token (PTK).
Patricia introduced PTK as an internal customer asset, emphasizing its commitment to integrity and customer trust. Additionally, the company committed to reimbursing every Patricia token holder with 1 USDT token following the security breach to recover assets.
Expectations for Justice Delivery to Suspects
In a post on X, Hanu shared updates about Patricia’s situation and assured that security units in the country were actively handling the matter.
Hanu currently expects other suspects involved in the incident to be delivered to justice and punished. He emphasized that resolving similar cases could take time and that efforts for a resolution are ongoing.
In November 2023, an arrest related to a robbery involving Patricia’s crypto wallet occurred. The Nigeria Police Force apprehended politician Wilfred Bonse, accused of stealing 200 million naira ($246,153) from Patricia Technologies’ crypto wallet. The police stated that the case involved elements such as conspiracy, unauthorized access to computer systems, and illegal use of funds, as indicated in the indictment.
