The National Examinations Council (NECO) has sounded the alarm over a fraudulent Facebook account created to impersonate its Registrar and Chief Executive, Professor Dantani Wushishi. The fake account, designed to deceive and defraud unsuspecting members of the public, has prompted NECO to issue a public advisory to safeguard citizens from falling victim to this sophisticated scam. The council’s swift response underscores its commitment to protecting its reputation and the public’s trust, while also highlighting the growing menace of cyber impersonation in Nigeria.
According to a statement released by NECO’s Acting Director of Information and Public Relations, Mr. Azeez Sani, the fraudulent account is not affiliated with Professor Wushishi or the council in any way. The scammers behind the account are reportedly using it to exploit individuals, likely by soliciting money, personal information, or other sensitive details under the guise of official NECO business. While the exact nature of the scam has not been detailed, such impersonation schemes often involve promises of exam-related favors, fake job opportunities, or requests for payments to resolve fabricated issues with examination results.
“This is a deliberate attempt to mislead and defraud innocent people,” Mr. Sani stated, urging the public to exercise caution and avoid any interaction with the fake account. He emphasized that Professor Wushishi does not operate a personal Facebook account for official NECO communications, and any such profile claiming to represent him should be treated as suspicious. NECO has made it clear that its official communications are conducted through verified channels, such as its website, authorized social media handles, or direct contact with its offices.
The council has already taken proactive steps to address the issue, reporting the matter to relevant security agencies for investigation and action. These agencies are now tasked with tracking down the perpetrators and ensuring they face the full weight of the law. NECO’s quick response reflects its determination to combat cybercrime and protect the integrity of its operations, which millions of Nigerian students and parents rely on for credible examination services.
This incident is a stark reminder of the rising tide of cyber impersonation in Nigeria, where fraudsters increasingly exploit the digital space to target unsuspecting individuals. NECO, as a critical institution responsible for conducting major examinations like the Senior School Certificate Examination (SSCE) and the Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE), is a prime target for such scams. Fraudsters often leverage the authority of high-profile figures like the NECO Registrar to gain trust and manipulate victims. In recent years, similar scams have targeted other government agencies and public figures, with impostors posing as officials to extort money or sensitive information.
To help the public stay safe, NECO has advised individuals to verify any communication claiming to come from the council or its officials. The council recommends checking its official website or contacting its offices directly to confirm the authenticity of any request or message. Additionally, NECO has called on the public to report any suspicious accounts or communications to the authorities immediately. “Do not engage with these fraudsters, as doing so could lead to financial loss or the compromise of personal information,” Mr. Sani warned.
This incident also raises broader concerns about cybersecurity awareness in Nigeria. As more institutions and individuals embrace digital platforms, the risk of falling prey to cybercriminals grows. Experts suggest that the public should remain vigilant, avoid sharing personal details online, and be wary of unsolicited messages, especially those requesting payments or sensitive information. NECO’s warning serves as a timely call for greater education on recognizing and avoiding online scams.
The council’s proactive measures and public alert demonstrate its commitment to transparency and accountability. By promptly addressing the issue and involving security agencies, NECO is taking a firm stand against cybercrime while reassuring the public of its dedication to maintaining trust. As the investigation unfolds, the council has pledged to keep stakeholders informed and urged anyone with information about the fake account to come forward.
For now, NECO advises the public to stay cautious and rely only on verified sources for information related to its activities. This incident serves as a critical reminder that in an increasingly connected world, vigilance is key to staying safe from digital fraud. As NECO continues to uphold its mandate of delivering credible examinations, it remains steadfast in protecting its stakeholders from those who seek to exploit its name for nefarious purposes.
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