By Nkechi Eze
The Nigerian Army has raised the alarm over a growing number of fake social media accounts allegedly being operated in the name of the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, warning members of the public to be vigilant and avoid falling victim to fraud and misinformation.
In an official statement signed by the Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Colonel Appolonia Anele, the Army described the development as a disturbing trend driven by unscrupulous individuals who falsely claim to represent or be associated with the Chief of Army Staff. Colonel Anele stated that the Nigerian Army wishes to “categorically state that the Chief of Army Staff does not have any official social media presence on any platform,” stressing that any account making such claims is fake and should be disregarded.
The Army cautioned that the operators of these fake accounts often seek to exploit unsuspecting members of the public by soliciting funds, requesting sensitive information, or spreading false narratives under the guise of the COAS or the Nigerian Army. As a result, the public was advised to exercise extreme caution, remain vigilant, and refrain from engaging with, responding to, or sharing content from such accounts.
According to the statement, the Nigerian Army has already commenced necessary actions to track down and apprehend those behind the fake accounts, with the aim of bringing them to justice in line with extant laws. The Army reaffirmed that it would not tolerate any attempt to use its leadership or institutional identity for criminal or deceptive purposes.
The Nigerian Army further reassured Nigerians of its unwavering commitment to the protection of citizens and the defence of the country’s territorial integrity, in accordance with the provisions of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, while urging the public to support ongoing efforts by promptly reporting suspicious online activities linked to the Army or its leadership.
