Odita Sunday 
Defence Minister disowns housing scheme, warns Nigerians against fraud
By Odita Sunday
The Office of the Minister of Defence has disassociated General Christopher Gwabin Musa (retd.), OFR, from a housing scheme allegedly using his name and photograph to solicit public funds.
The ministry, in a statement issued in Abuja and signed by Leah Katung-Babatunde, Special Assistant (Media) to the Minister, warned Nigerians against falling victim to fraudulent schemes exploiting the Minister’s identity.
According to the statement, the Office of the Minister had received reports of the unauthorised use of his name, official title and photographs by individuals and entities seeking to lend credibility to fraudulent activities.
It specifically raised concerns over a housing scheme reportedly promoted through a WhatsApp group, where the Minister’s photograph was allegedly used to attract public subscriptions and payments.
The ministry categorically stated that Musa was not associated with, affiliated with or involved in any housing scheme, investment programme or financial venture soliciting funds from members of the public.
It described any attempt to link the Minister to such activities as a deliberate falsehood intended to deceive and defraud unsuspecting Nigerians.
The statement urged members of the public to exercise caution and disregard advertisements, online posts, promotional materials and solicitations featuring the Minister’s name or photograph in connection with housing projects or monetary schemes.
It further warned individuals, groups and organisations involved in the unauthorised use of the Minister’s identity that the Office would not hesitate to take legal action against them.
According to the ministry, security agencies would also be involved to ensure the arrest and prosecution of anyone found exploiting the Minister’s identity for financial gain.
The public was advised to report suspicious solicitations and schemes invoking the Minister’s name to the appropriate law enforcement authorities.
The ministry reiterated the need for Nigerians to verify claims and exercise due diligence before making financial commitments to individuals or organisations using the names and images of public officials to solicit money.
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