The Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) has warned Nigerians to disregard individuals demanding money on behalf of its Director-General and Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Ifeanyi Okeke, saying fraudsters are impersonating him using fake phone numbers and bank accounts.
According to a statement issued on Saturday, the agency said the scammers have been contacting members of the public while falsely claiming to represent the SON chief executive.
It said one of the reported cases involved a demand for ₦8.5 million allegedly meant to facilitate a contract award.
“The public is hereby informed that the Director General/Chief Executive, Dr. Ifeanyi Chukwunonso Okeke, does not solicit funds, request monetary transfers, award contracts, offer employment opportunities, or conduct auctions or official business through social media accounts,” the statement said.
The organisation stressed that all recruitment, procurement, contract awards and auctions are carried out strictly in line with federal government regulations and due process.
It said steps have been taken to curb the scam and protect stakeholders from falling victim.
SON further advised members of the public to verify all official communications through its approved channels, including authorised social media pages, official email addresses, customer service lines and offices nationwide.
The agency also urged Nigerians to remain vigilant and report suspicious messages or fraudulent activities to security agents.