The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has launched a renewed offensive against online fraudsters exploiting social media platforms to lure unsuspecting Nigerians with fake job and auction offers.
Speaking at a press briefing at the Customs Headquarters in Abuja on Friday, the National Public Relations Officer, Assistant Comptroller Customs, Abdullahi Maiwada, said the Service is alarmed by a surge in fraudulent activities falsely linked to the NCS. He confirmed the arrest of one suspect and warned of a broader criminal network targeting vulnerable citizens.
“We have observed a disturbing rise in fake accounts bearing the names and images of the Comptroller-General of Customs, the National PRO, and even retired senior officers, all falsely claiming to offer jobs and auction opportunities,” Maiwada said.
He clarified that the Service does not engage in recruitment or auction processes via social media, stressing that such schemes are criminal attempts to defraud the public and damage the agency’s reputation.
“These are criminal acts aimed at tarnishing the Service’s image and defrauding innocent Nigerians,” he added.
As part of its clampdown, the Customs Police Unit recently arrested a suspect, Mr. Okoli Okana Boniface, who allegedly posed as an aide to Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu. The suspect was reportedly involved in attempts to manipulate Customs recruitment by impersonating high-profile individuals.
Maiwada described the arrest, which took place on June 16, as a testament to the agency’s zero-tolerance stance on corruption and fraud.
“Findings confirmed it was a calculated attempt to compromise the integrity of the recruitment exercise,” he said.
He also revealed that investigations are ongoing to identify and apprehend other individuals involved in the scam network.
The NCS urged the public to exercise caution and avoid engaging with unsolicited offers from unverified online sources. Maiwada advised Nigerians to confirm information exclusively through the Service’s official communication platforms.
“The public is advised to disregard messages or offers from unverified sources and rely solely on our verified platforms for accurate information,” he emphasized.
Reiterating the agency’s resolve, Maiwada said the NCS would continue to expose and prosecute those attempting to undermine its operations.
“The Nigeria Customs Service remains committed to identifying, exposing, and prosecuting those who seek to compromise our operations through deceit,” he stated.
