By Nkechi Eze
The Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (Rtd.), OFR, has disowned a housing scheme allegedly using his name, official title and photograph to solicit public subscriptions and payments, warning Nigerians against falling victim to fraudulent schemes.
According to an official statement signed by Leah Katung-Babatunde, Special Assistant (Media) to the Honourable Minister of Defence, the Ministry’s attention has been drawn to the unauthorised use of the Minister’s identity by individuals and entities seeking to legitimise illegal activities.
The statement disclosed that the Office was aware of a housing scheme requiring public subscription and payments, whose promoters allegedly used the Minister’s photograph in a WhatsApp group to attract participation.
It stressed that General Musa had no association, affiliation or involvement with any housing scheme, investment programme or financial venture soliciting funds or participation from members of the public.
“Any attempt to associate his name or image with such activities is a deliberate falsehood designed to deceive and defraud unsuspecting Nigerians,” the statement said.
The Office consequently urged members of the public to exercise extreme caution and disregard advertisements, promotional materials, online posts and solicitations featuring the Minister’s name or photograph in connection with monetary schemes or housing programmes.
It warned that the unauthorised use of the Minister’s identity for fraudulent purposes would attract serious consequences, adding that the Office would not hesitate to initiate legal action and involve security agencies in the arrest and prosecution of individuals, groups or organisations found culpable.
The statement further advised Nigerians to report suspicious solicitations and fraudulent schemes invoking the Minister’s name to the appropriate law enforcement authorities.
It reiterated the need for the public to verify the authenticity of investment opportunities and housing schemes before making financial commitments, particularly where the names or images of public officials are used to solicit funds.
