The Nigerian Army has warned the public against fake social media accounts claiming to be operated by or associated with the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu.
In a statement issued on Friday via the Nigerian Army’s X handle by the Acting Director, Army Public Relations, Appolonia Anele, the Army noted a troubling rise in individuals creating and operating fraudulent online accounts in the name of the COAS.
The Army emphasized that the Chief of Army Staff does not operate or maintain any official social media accounts on any platform, stressing that any account claiming otherwise is fake and should be ignored.
The statement advised, “Members of the public are urged to exercise caution and remain vigilant, as fake accounts are often used to defraud unsuspecting individuals, solicit funds, or spread misinformation in the name of the Nigerian Army.” It also warned against engaging with, responding to, or sharing content from such accounts, noting that doing so could expose individuals to scams and other criminal activities.
The Army further disclosed that measures are being taken to identify and apprehend those behind the fake accounts, with a view to prosecuting them under existing laws.
The statement concluded by reassuring Nigerians of the Army’s unwavering commitment to protecting lives and property, as well as safeguarding the country’s territorial integrity in accordance with the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
