Despite Ban and Probe, CBEX Reopens with Conditions for Old Users

 

Despite Ban and Probe, CBEX Reopens with Conditions for Old Users

Despite a N1.2 trillion fraud affecting over 600,000 Nigerians, Crypto Bridge Exchange (CBEX) has resumed operations, defying a Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) ban and an ongoing Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) probe. CBEX, a digital trading platform, announced new withdrawal options to regain investor trust, with two traders confirming to The PUNCH that new users can register, trade, and withdraw profits. An external audit by a UK-based insurance firm is underway to verify losses from the platform’s April 14, 2025, collapse, with existing investors potentially accessing funds by June 25, 2025.

CBEX, registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission in 2024 and the EFCC’s anti-money laundering unit in 2025, promised 100% returns in 30 days via AI trading. Following its collapse, the EFCC declared eight individuals wanted, including Adefowora Abiodun, who surrendered for questioning. The SEC labeled CBEX illegal, warning against unregulated platforms. Despite this, new investors are joining, lured by quick-profit promises. Old accounts remain under audit, with promoters claiming only N126 billion was lost, not N1.2 trillion, and refuting fraud allegations.

Also, old investors on CBEX can trade but not withdraw their funds due to an ongoing audit by the UK government, expected to finish in 30 to 60 days. Starting June 25, investors will be able to withdraw up to 50% of their remaining capital. After June 25, they can withdraw $400 from the remaining $800, with the rest available by August 25. However, withdrawal will not be possible without completing the required verification process. The Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU) flagged CBEX and similar platforms like eWealth Connect and WWCoin as high-risk, citing unrealistic returns and Ponzi-like traits.

SEC Director-General Emomotimi Agama emphasized that CAC and EFCC registrations do not legitimize investment schemes, urging Nigerians to verify platforms with the SEC to avoid scams.