The Standards Organisation of Nigeria has urged Nigerians to disregard requests for funds from fraudsters impersonating its Director-General and Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Ifeanyi Okeke.
As reported by Cables, in a statement issued on Saturday, the agency said the scammers have been using fake phone numbers and bank accounts to deceive unsuspecting members of the public by falsely presenting themselves as the SON chief executive.
SON disclosed that in one reported case, the fraudsters requested the payment of N8.5 million into a bank account provided by them under the guise of facilitating a contract.
“The public is hereby informed that the Director General/Chief Executive, Dr. Ifeanyi Chukwunonso Okeke, does not solicit funds, request monetary transfers, award contracts, offer employment opportunities, or conduct auctions or official business through social media accounts,” the statement said.
The agency identified the details linked to the fraudulent activity as a WhatsApp number, 07046427254, and an Access Bank account bearing the name Musa Abubakar with account number 1955996824.
“The public is strongly advised not to engage with the holder of the above telephone number or make any payment into the stated account,” SON warned.
The organisation reiterated that all employment opportunities, procurement exercises, auctions and contract awards are conducted strictly in accordance with federal government regulations and due process procedures.
It added that measures have already been taken to address the situation and protect stakeholders from falling victim to the scam.
“Stakeholders and members of the public are encouraged to communicate with SON only through approved and official channels, including authorized social media platforms, official email addresses, customer service channels, toll-free lines, and SON offices nationwide,” the statement added.
SON also urged Nigerians to remain vigilant and promptly report any suspicious communications or fraudulent activities to the appropriate security agencies.
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