The Nigerian Army has issued a public alert over the emergence of fake social media accounts falsely presenting themselves as belonging to the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu.
The warning was contained in a statement released in Abuja on Friday by the Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Col. Appolonia Anele.
She said the Army had recorded an alarming increase in fraudulent online profiles created by criminals seeking to impersonate the COAS for illegal activities.
Anele clarified that the Chief of Army Staff does not operate any official social media account on any platform.
She explained that the fake accounts are being used to mislead unsuspecting members of the public, solicit money, spread false information and carry out other fraudulent schemes under the guise of the COAS and the Nigerian Army.
The Army spokesperson urged citizens to remain cautious and vigilant, advising them not to engage with, respond to or share content originating from such accounts.
She further warned that any request for money, assistance or favours allegedly made in the name of the COAS should be regarded as fraudulent.
Anele added that security measures were already in place to track down those responsible for the fake accounts, with the aim of prosecuting them in line with existing laws.
She reassured Nigerians of the Army’s continued resolve to safeguard lives and property, while upholding the nation’s territorial integrity in line with the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.