The University of Lagos (UNILAG) has raised alarm over individuals impersonating the institution’s Vice-Chancellor, Professor Folasade Ogunsola, in a “sham procurement process.”
In a statement signed by the institution’s Head of Communication, Adejoke Alaga-Ibraheem, the university revealed that scammers have been reaching out to unsuspecting individual in an attempt to plan shrouded procurement processes for laptops, computers, upfront payments and improper financial arrangements.
“Reports indicate that these fraudsters have contacted individuals via social media (LinkedIn, Facebook, X and WhatsApp), falsely claiming to be the Vice-Chancellor and attempting to orchestrate sham procurement processes for laptops/computers, with fabricated requirements for secrecy, upfront payments and improper financial
arrangements.
“These individuals went as far as proposing an illegal 60/40 profit-sharing scheme and directing communications to private email addresses rather than official UNILAG domains,” the statement read.
The institution reaffirmed that its procurements are conducted in transparency and competitive processes in full compliance with Nigerian Procurement Laws.
“At no time would any legitimate representative of UNILAG, least of all the Vice-Chancellor, request upfront payments, propose kickback arrangements, or conduct official business through personal email accounts or social media platforms.
“Any such communication should be considered fraudulent and reported immediately,” it said.
The institution stressed that it has reported the fraudulent case to law enforcement agencies in an attempt to bring to book the perpetrators.
“We have already taken swift action by escalating this matter to the appropriate law enforcement agencies. The University is cooperating fully with investigators to identify and prosecute those responsible for this criminal impersonation.
“To protect yourself and our institution, we urge all members of the public to exercise extreme caution. Official UNILAG communications will always come through verifiable institutional channels.
“Should you receive any suspicious approaches claiming association with UNILAG leadership, please verify through our official email, communicationunit@unilag.edu.ng or contact the Vice-Chancellor’s office directly at vcoffice@unilag.edu.ng,” the institution said.
The institution frowned at the misuse of our institution’s name or the impersonation of its officials for criminal purposes, reiterating its commitment to integrity and transparency.
“Together, through vigilance and cooperation, we can protect the integrity of our beloved institution and prevent others from falling victim to these predatory schemes”.
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