NIGERIA, UYO – The Akwa Ibom State Government has disclaimed a viral message promoting a fraudulent “Akwa Ibom Conditional Cash Grant” circulating online with deceptive links and fake official insignia.
In a press release dated July 30, Commissioner for Information, Rt. Hon. Aniekan Umanah, described the message as “false, misleading, and a scam,” warning residents not to engage with the link or provide personal data.
The scam uses the name and image of the Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs to gain public trust, but the government insists no such grant exists through unofficial channels.
Umanah stated that “the public must remain vigilant and avoid any third-party websites claiming to offer government cash support,” adding that genuine initiatives are only announced through official platforms.
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The release highlighted the danger of identity theft and financial exploitation if citizens fall for such schemes. Victims risk exposing personal bank information and may suffer monetary losses.
A civil society observer, Edidiong Akpan, called for digital literacy campaigns. “Scams like these exploit economic hardship. Many are desperate and may unknowingly fall victim,” she said.
The state government reaffirmed its commitment to transparency and warned that it would prosecute individuals or groups found guilty of impersonating public officers.
Citizens are advised to verify all welfare claims through the state’s verified websites or media outlets to avoid falling into fraudulent traps.
