The Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) has alerted businesses and members of the public to a fraudulent scheme in which scammers are impersonating its Director-General and Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Ifeanyi Chukwunonso Okeke, to solicit funds under false pretences.In a statement issued on Saturday, SON said the fraudsters have been using fake phone numbers and bank account details to deceive unsuspecting individuals and organisations, including by claiming to facilitate contract awards.According to the agency, one reported case involved a demand for N8.5 million to be paid into a designated bank account as part of a purported contract arrangement.SON stressed that its Director-General does not request money transfers, award contracts, offer employment opportunities, conduct auctions, or transact official business through social media platforms.The organisation identified a WhatsApp number, 07046427254, and an Access Bank account bearing the name Musa Abubakar (Account Number: 1955996824) as being linked to the fraudulent activity.The agency urged businesses and the general public to avoid any dealings with the identified contacts and refrain from making payments into the account.SON further reiterated that all procurement processes, contract awards, employment opportunities, and auction activities are conducted strictly in line with federal government regulations and established due process procedures.The warning comes amid growing concerns over the increasing use of impersonation and digital fraud schemes targeting businesses and individuals seeking government-related opportunities.
