Army warns public over fake social media accounts impersonating top generals

The Nigerian Army has alerted the public to the proliferation of fraudulent social media accounts that are impersonating high-ranking military officers. These fake profiles, primarily active on platforms like Facebook, are being used by criminals to deceive and defraud unsuspecting individuals.

Specifically, the Army identified that fraudsters have created fake accounts impersonating Major General Raymond Utsaha, the Deputy Chief of Standards and Evaluation (Army), while using the photograph of Major General Bamidele Alabi, the Chief of Policy and Plans (Army). The Army stated that these accounts were established with the malicious intent of defrauding people through false representations and unauthorized online engagements.

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The Nigerian Army wishes to categorically state that the said Facebook accounts are fake and were created with malicious intent to defraud individuals through false representations and unauthorised online engagements.

In a statement released via its official X handle on Sunday, the Army categorically declared these Facebook accounts as fake. They emphasized that such activities are carried out with the intention to defraud individuals through deceptive online interactions. The Army urged the public to exercise caution and disregard any communications, friend requests, financial solicitations, or unofficial engagements originating from these fraudulent accounts.

The Nigerian Army reiterated that senior military officials do not conduct official transactions, award contracts, request financial assistance, or handle sensitive official matters through personal social media platforms or unofficial online channels. The public is strongly advised to remain vigilant, report any suspicious accounts or activities to the appropriate security agencies, and to verify information through official channels. The Army also committed to monitoring and taking necessary measures against those involved in cyber impersonation and related fraudulent activities.

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The general public is urged to remain vigilant and report suspicious accounts or activities to the appropriate security agencies.