Criminals soliciting for money in my name – Bishop Kukah

Says most innocent persons have parted with millions of naira

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From Aidoghie Paulinus, Abuja

The Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese, Most Revd (Dr) Matthew Hassan Kukah, has appealed to Nigerians to be more diligent and to check and cross-check with him and the Diocese of Sokoto before making any donation to either himself or the diocese.

Kukah stated this following what he termed a renewed and energetic use of his name by criminals to defraud Nigerians.

The former Secretary-General of the Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria, in a statement issued by the Director of Communications, Catholic Diocese of Sokoto, Revd Fr Paschal Salifu, said that for over ten years his name has been bandied around by criminals soliciting for money from prominent Nigerians.

Kukah also said that, initially, he responded by issuing disclaimers, adding that after some time there was respite.

He, however, said: “Now, there has been a renewed and energetic use of my name by these same criminals again. I have tried to alert the security agencies, but things have not changed.

“These criminals are targeting very prominent, respected and high net worth persons such as governors, ministers, eminent statesmen and women and posing as my good self.”

Kukah further said a good number of eminent persons have continued to reach out to him, people whose contacts he did not even have, seeking clarifications about his request for financial assistance.

“Most innocent persons have parted with millions of naira to criminals who are posing as Bishop Kukah. Often, the requests come with bank accounts opened in my name (often Opay). There is obviously collusion with unscrupulous elements in some of the banks. I am deeply appreciative of the trust and the kindness of millions of Nigerians across the society who appreciate what we are doing for faith and country. I want to thank all those who have supported and continue to support our work.

“However, I appeal to all Nigerians to please be more diligent, check and cross-check with us before you make any donation to either myself or the Diocese of Sokoto. Should you require further clarification, please contact our Chancery via: [email protected] or [email protected] or Revd Fr Pascal Salifu, +234 8189 276598, X – @fada_pascall,” Kukah stated.