Photo caption: Prof Folashade Ogunsola
The University of Lagos has issued a public warning following disturbing reports that fraudsters are impersonating the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Folasade Ogunsola, in a sophisticated procurement scam.
According to a statement signed and released by the Head of the Communication Unit, Mrs Adejoke Alaga-Ibraheem, on Monday, the impostors have been reaching out to unsuspecting individuals through social media platforms such as LinkedIn, Facebook, X, and WhatsApp, falsely presenting themselves as Ogunsola.
“These criminals are orchestrating sham procurement processes for laptops and computers, luring victims with bogus requests for secrecy, upfront payments and even suggesting a 60/40 profit-sharing arrangement.
“Worryingly, they direct communication through private emails rather than official UNILAG domains,” the statement revealed.
The university described the fraudulent activity as not only illegal but deeply concerning.
“Let it be unequivocally clear: at no point would the Vice-Chancellor, or any legitimate representative of the university, conduct official business via personal email accounts or social media.
“Any such request should be considered fraudulent and reported without delay,” the statement partly read.
UNILAG has assured the public that it adheres strictly to transparent and competitive procurement processes, in line with Nigerian procurement laws.
“This is a direct attack on the integrity of our institution.
“The University has promptly escalated the matter to law enforcement agencies and is cooperating fully with investigations to bring the perpetrators to justice,” said the statement.
The institution urged members of the public to exercise extreme caution and to verify any suspicious claims or requests by contacting the university via official channels.
“Should you receive any questionable message or proposal claiming to come from the Vice-Chancellor or other UNILAG officials, please verify immediately through [email protected] or [email protected],” the statement added.
Reaffirming its zero-tolerance stance on fraud, the university stated, ”UNILAG remains committed to the highest standards of integrity and transparency.
“We will not tolerate the criminal misuse of our institution’s name or the impersonation of our officials.
“Through vigilance and cooperation, we can protect the reputation of our beloved institution and ensure that no one falls victim to these malicious schemes.”
