The Nigerian Army has issued a strong warning to the public over the growing use of fake social media accounts bearing the name and identity of the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, describing the development as a calculated attempt by fraudsters to exploit unsuspecting Nigerians.
In a statement released on Friday via its official X (formerly Twitter) handle, the Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Appolonia Anele, said the Army had observed a disturbing rise in the activities of individuals creating and operating fraudulent online accounts falsely linked to the COAS for criminal purposes.
According to the Army, the fake accounts are being used to deceive members of the public, solicit money, and spread false or misleading information in the name of the Nigerian Army, posing serious security and reputational risks.
The statement categorically clarified that Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu does not operate, manage, or maintain any official social media account on any platform, stressing that any account claiming to represent him in that capacity is fake and should be completely disregarded.
“The general public is advised to exercise extreme caution and remain vigilant, as these fraudulent accounts are deliberately designed to appear credible and authoritative,” the Army warned.
It noted that engagement with such accounts whether by responding to messages, sharing content, or complying with requests could expose individuals to financial scams and other criminal activities.
The Army further disclosed that it has commenced necessary measures to identify, track, and apprehend those responsible for the fake accounts, with a view to prosecuting them in line with extant laws of the country.
Reassuring Nigerians, the Army reiterated its commitment to transparency, professionalism, and the protection of citizens, stating that the institution remains focused on safeguarding lives and property, as well as defending the nation’s territorial integrity in accordance with the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
The Army urged members of the public to rely only on verified official communication channels for authentic information, and to promptly report suspicious online activities linked to military authorities.