The Nigerian Army has raised an alarm over the growing number of fake social media accounts falsely claiming to represent or be associated with the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, warning members of the public to remain vigilant and avoid engaging with such platforms.
The warning was contained in a statement issued on Friday by the Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Colonel Appolonia Anele. The Army said the accounts are operated by impostors and do not have any connection to the Chief of Army Staff or the institution.
According to the statement, the Nigerian Army has observed a disturbing rise in the creation and operation of fraudulent social media accounts by unscrupulous individuals. These individuals allegedly present themselves as the Chief of Army Staff or as persons acting on his behalf.
The Army categorically clarified that Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu does not operate or maintain any official social media account on any platform. It stressed that any account claiming to speak for or represent the Chief of Army Staff is fake.
The statement noted that the impostors behind the accounts are using them for criminal purposes. These include attempts to defraud unsuspecting members of the public, solicit funds, and spread false or misleading information in the name of the Nigerian Army.
The Army expressed concern that such activities could harm public trust and undermine the credibility of the military. It warned that individuals who fall victim to these fake accounts could suffer financial loss or be misled by false narratives.
Members of the public were strongly advised to exercise extreme caution when encountering social media accounts claiming links to the Chief of Army Staff. The Army urged Nigerians not to interact with, respond to, or share information from such accounts.
The statement further advised the public to report suspicious accounts to relevant authorities. According to the Army, public cooperation is essential in curbing the spread of misinformation and online scams linked to impersonation.
Colonel Anele said the Nigerian Army is taking the issue seriously. She stated that concrete steps are already being taken to track down and apprehend those responsible for operating the fake accounts.
She added that the individuals behind the fraudulent profiles would be brought to justice in accordance with existing laws. The Army said it is working closely with relevant security and regulatory agencies to address the situation.
The Army emphasised that impersonation of military officials is a serious offence. It warned that anyone found guilty of such acts would face the full weight of the law.
In the statement, the Nigerian Army also sought to reassure citizens of its commitment to national security. It said the military remains focused on protecting Nigerians and defending the country’s territorial integrity.
The Army stressed that its core mandate, as enshrined in the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, remains unchanged. It said safeguarding lives and property across the country continues to be its top priority.
The warning comes amid increasing concerns over the misuse of social media by criminals. The Army noted that advances in technology have made it easier for impostors to create fake identities and deceive the public.
It added that the situation highlights the need for greater digital awareness among citizens. The Army encouraged Nigerians to verify information through official channels before accepting or acting on it.
The statement reiterated that official information from the Nigerian Army is only disseminated through recognised and verified platforms. It urged the public to rely on these channels for accurate updates and announcements.
The Army said it would continue to monitor the situation closely. It pledged to keep the public informed of any developments related to the investigation into the fake accounts.
The latest warning underscores the military’s broader efforts to combat misinformation and cyber-related crimes. The Army said such actions are necessary to preserve public confidence and protect the integrity of the institution.
It concluded by calling on Nigerians to remain alert and cautious online. The Army said collective vigilance is crucial in preventing criminals from exploiting the identities of senior military officers for personal gain.
