ABU Zaria Warns Public About Scammers Impersonating Vice-Chancellor on Social Media

Ahmadu Bello University (ABU) Zaria has issued an urgent public warning about fraudsters impersonating Vice-Chancellor Prof. Adamu Ahmed on social media platforms. The scammers have been actively targeting the VC's associates since May 2025.

How the Scam Works

Platforms Used

• WhatsApp (primary platform)
• Facebook
• Other social media channels

Scam Tactics

The fraudsters employ sophisticated impersonation techniques:

1. Clone Accounts: Create fake profiles using the Vice-Chancellor's name and photograph
2. Target Associates: Contact people in the VC's network who might trust the communication
3. Fake Contracts: Discuss non-existent "contract awards for the supply of computers and other accessories"
4. Multiple Numbers: Use different phone numbers while maintaining the same profile picture
5. Request Money: Eventually ask for payments or financial information

Red Flags to Watch For

Be suspicious if you receive messages claiming to be from the Vice-Chancellor with these characteristics:

Content Warning Signs

• Unsolicited contract discussions
• Requests for money or financial assistance
• Urgent payment demands
• Requests to purchase items on the VC's behalf
• Discussions about computer equipment supply

Technical Warning Signs

• Messages from unknown phone numbers
• New WhatsApp accounts or recently created Facebook profiles
• No verification badge on official-looking accounts
• Poor grammar or spelling (though scammers are getting sophisticated)

Official University Statement

ABU explicitly warns: "Members of the university community and the general public are hereby urged to disregard such messages as they are nothing but a scam."

What to Do If Contacted

Immediate Actions

1. Do Not Respond: Ignore any messages from suspicious accounts
2. Do Not Send Money: Never transfer funds or share financial information
3. Do Not Share Personal Data: Protect your bank details, passwords, or ID information
4. Block the Account: Immediately block the scammer on WhatsApp/Facebook
5. Report the Account: Use the platform's reporting feature to flag the fake profile

Verification Steps

If you receive a message claiming to be from university officials:

• Call the university directly using published contact numbers
• Visit the official university website for announcements
• Contact the relevant department through official channels
• Verify through the university's official social media accounts

University's Response

ABU is taking this matter seriously:

• University Security is investigating the impersonation
• Collaboration with law enforcement agencies to track perpetrators
• Working to prosecute criminals when identified
• Public awareness campaign to prevent victims

Protecting Yourself from Social Media Scams

General Safety Tips

• Verify Identity: Always confirm unusual requests through official channels
• Be Skeptical: University officials rarely request money via social media
• Check Profile Details: Look for verification badges, account age, and follower patterns
• Never Rush: Scammers create urgency to prevent careful thinking
• Protect Information: Don't share personal or financial details on social media

Common Nigerian University Scams

Similar impersonation scams target:

• Vice-Chancellors
• Registrars
• Deans and Heads of Departments
• Lecturers (for examination fraud)
• Admission officers (for fake admissions)

For Students and Staff

If You're a Student

• University officials won't contact you via WhatsApp for payments
• Admission, registration, and fees are processed through official channels
• Examination matters are handled through departments, not social media
• Legitimate scholarships or opportunities come through official university announcements

If You're a Staff Member

• Be alert for fake directives from supposed university leadership
• Verify any unusual requests through proper administrative channels
• Report suspicious messages to university security
• Warn colleagues about ongoing scam attempts

Reporting Scam Attempts

If you encounter these scammers:

1. University Security: Report to ABU security office
2. Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC): File a complaint online
3. Nigerian Police: Report to your local police station
4. Platform Authorities: Use WhatsApp/Facebook's fraud reporting systems

Stay Safe Online

Remember: If something seems too good to be true or feels suspicious, it probably is. Always verify before you trust, and never send money to someone you can't confirm is legitimate.

Share this warning with friends, family, and colleagues to prevent them from falling victim to these scammers.