Akume Disassociates Self, SGF Office from Fraudsters Soliciting Payments for Federal Appointments

By our Correspondent

The Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, has disassociated himself from fraudsters who have cloned the phone numbers of prominent individuals to extort money from unsuspecting Nigerians.

The SGF issued a warning to the public to remain vigilant, revealing that the scammers falsely claim their targets have been shortlisted for Federal Government appointments and then demand payment to process such fictitious offers.

This caution comes following numerous enquiries received by the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation regarding the deceptive activities of these individuals and groups.

According to a statement issued by the SGF’s Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Yomi Odunuga, the fraudsters typically include bank account information in their messages and request sums ranging from N5 million to N15 million. Victims are also asked to send their curriculum vitae to fraudulent email addresses.

Senator Akume stressed that the process of appointing individuals to boards and parastatals is open and transparent, and warned Nigerians not to pay any money with the expectation of securing a position.

Available information also indicates that the scammers have gone as far as cloning the SGF’s voice to convince targets into paying for federal appointments.

Some of the bank accounts used by the fraudsters are said to be held not only in new generation banks but also with popular fintech mobile money platforms operating within the country.

While security agencies have been duly notified, the SGF’s office urges Nigerians to report such fraudulent schemes to the appropriate authorities and take all necessary precautions to avoid falling victim.