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From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja
Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), George Akume, has disassociated himself and his office from a fraudulent scheme involving scammers who clone phone numbers of prominent individuals to extort money from unsuspecting Nigerians.
In a statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Yomi Odunuga, the SGF cautioned the public about the growing scam where victims are falsely informed that they have been shortlisted for Federal Government appointments, and are subsequently asked to pay substantial sums of money to secure these fictitious positions.
“The Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation has received numerous reports concerning these deceitful activities,” Akume said. “I want to make it absolutely clear that our appointment process is transparent and verifiable. Individuals should not pay any money in expectation of securing any position.”
According to the statement, the scammers contact victims via cloned phone numbers and emails, attaching bank account details and demanding deposits ranging from five to fifteen million Naira. They also request victims to submit their curriculum vitae to fraudulent email addresses.
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“What is even more alarming,” the statement revealed, “is that fraudsters have gone as far as cloning the voice of the SGF to make their solicitations appear authentic.”
The scammers’ bank accounts have been traced to various financial institutions, including new-generation banks and major fintech mobile money platforms in Nigeria.
The Office of the SGF has liaised with relevant security agencies, who are now investigating the matter. Meanwhile, Nigerians are urged to exercise caution and report any suspicious communications related to this scam.
“We strongly advise all Nigerians to verify any such offers with the appropriate authorities and to be vigilant against these fraudulent schemes,” Akume added.
