Zenith Bank Disowns Fake Investment Videos Featuring Jim Ovia

Zenith Bank Plc has alerted the public to fraudulent online investment content falsely linking its Group Chairman, Dr. Jim Ovia, to a scheme circulating on social media.

In a statement issued on Thursday, the bank said it had become aware of manipulated videos and images portraying Ovia as endorsing an investment platform known as “Wealth Bridge.” The materials, reportedly shared through a Facebook account named “Greece Island,” claim participants can earn up to ₦2 million weekly from an initial ₦380,000 investment.

The bank firmly denied any connection to the scheme, stating that neither Dr. Ovia nor Zenith Bank has any partnership or affiliation with the promoters behind it.

According to the disclaimer, the fraudulent content also alleges backing from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and directs users to a webpage designed to resemble that of Arise News, where registration links are provided. Zenith Bank described these representations as completely false.

“For the avoidance of doubt, all the videos and promotional materials referenced are fake and have nothing to do with Zenith Bank Plc or Dr. Jim Ovia,” the statement read.

The bank cautioned that individuals who engage with the scheme do so at their own risk. It identified several names and online handles allegedly associated with the promotion, including “Wealth Bridge,” “delicious sitee,” “AfriQuantumX,” and “Stock market analyst 1.”

The incident reflects a growing trend in which fraudsters deploy doctored or AI-generated videos to impersonate prominent figures and reputable institutions. These schemes often lure victims with promises of unusually high and guaranteed returns—an established warning sign highlighted by financial regulators.

Zenith Bank reiterated that it does not solicit investments via social media or informal online platforms. Customers were advised to verify any financial offers directly through the bank’s official communication channels.

Dr. Ovia, founder and Group Chairman of Zenith Bank, remains a leading figure in Nigeria’s banking industry. The bank stressed that his name and image were used without authorisation in the deceptive materials.

The lender urged the public to exercise caution when encountering online investment opportunities, particularly those promising extraordinary returns within a short timeframe. It also encouraged anyone who comes across suspicious messages or promotions to report them to the relevant authorities.

As digital scams become more sophisticated, financial institutions continue to emphasise vigilance and verification. Zenith Bank’s warning highlights the dangers of online impersonation and the need for careful scrutiny before committing funds to any investment scheme.