The University of Lagos has raised the alarm that certain individuals are impersonating its vice-chancellor, Prof Folasade Ogunsola, in a “sham procurement process.”
The university raised the alarm in a statement by the Head, Communication Unit, Office of the Vice-Chancellor, Adejoke Alaga-Ibraheem, on Monday.
Hiding under the guise of being the UNILAG VC, the individuals are said to have initiated procurement processes for laptops/computers, “with fabricated requirements for secrecy, upfront payments and improper financial arrangements.”
The university held that the individuals, claiming to be the Vice-Chancellor have contacted individuals, using various social media accounts, and offered kickback arrangements in the procurement process.
The statement read, “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.
“Let it be unequivocally clear, the University of Lagos conducts all procurement activities through transparent, 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.”
The university, however, noted that it has reported and tasked security agents to identify and prosecute those behind the “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, [email protected] or contact the Vice-Chancellor’s office directly at [email protected].
“The University of Lagos remains committed to maintaining the highest standards of integrity and transparency. We will not tolerate the misuse of our institution’s name or the impersonation of our officials for criminal purposes.
“Together, through vigilance and cooperation, we can protect the integrity of our beloved institution and prevent others from falling victim to these predatory schemes,” the statement added.(Punch)
