The Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (rtd), has warned Nigerians against a housing scheme allegedly using his name, official title and photograph to solicit public subscriptions and payments.
Musa said he had no connection with the scheme or any investment programme or financial venture seeking money from members of the public.
In a statement issued in Abuja and signed by his Special Assistant on Media, Leah Katung-Babatunde, the minister said his office had received reports that his identity and photograph were being used without authorisation in a WhatsApp group promoting the scheme.
He described the development as an attempt by individuals or groups to mislead Nigerians and obtain money from unsuspecting members of the public.
“We wish to state unequivocally and categorically that the Minister of Defence is not associated, affiliated or involved in any way with any housing scheme, investment programme or financial venture soliciting funds or participation from the public,” the statement said.
The minister’s office urged Nigerians to disregard advertisements, social media posts and other promotional materials using his name or photograph to solicit payments for housing projects or investment schemes.
It warned that those responsible for the unauthorised use of the minister’s identity could face legal action and prosecution.
“The Office of the Minister of Defence views this unauthorised exploitation with gravity. The Office will not hesitate to initiate swift legal action and involve security agencies to arrest and prosecute any individuals, groups or organisations caught using the Minister’s identity or image to take undue advantage of citizens for pecuniary gains,” the statement added.
The office advised members of the public to report suspicious messages and suspected fraudulent schemes involving the minister’s name to the appropriate law enforcement authorities.
It also urged Nigerians to verify the authenticity of housing projects and investment opportunities before making financial commitments, particularly when the names or photographs of public officials are used to attract subscribers.
Defence minister cautions Nigerians against housing scheme using his image