Ex-Edo deputy gov Philip Shaibu alerts Public on WhatsApp scam

The Director General of the National Institute for Sports (NIS) and immediate past Deputy Governor of Edo State, Rt. Hon. Comrade Philip Shaibu, has raised the alarm over fraudulent activities by impostors who hacked his WhatsApp number in a bid to defraud unsuspecting Nigerians.

According to a statement from his office, the scammers have been sending out deceptive messages while impersonating Shaibu.

Their tactics reportedly include soliciting financial assistance, offering fake employment opportunities, and promising government contracts in exchange for money.

Shaibu has, however, categorically disowned the messages, stressing that he would “never at any time” use WhatsApp or any other medium to ask for money, job placements, or contract favors.

He further clarified that as DG of the NIS, he does not conduct recruitment exercises, does not award contracts, and will never demand payments from anyone under any guise.

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“These fraudsters are not only attempting to swindle innocent Nigerians but also trying to tarnish my reputation,” Shaibu said, describing the scheme as a calculated act of cybercrime.

Security agencies have since commenced investigations and are tracking down the perpetrators. Authorities have assured that the culprits, once apprehended, will face the full weight of the law.

The NIS boss urged the public to exercise caution, carefully verify suspicious communications, and immediately disregard any unsolicited requests linked to his name.

He also appealed to Nigerians to widely circulate the disclaimer to protect friends, families, and associates from falling victim to online scams.