High-Stakes Scam: Criminal Ring Uses SGF’s Voice to Sell Phantom Federal Appointments
Abuja – Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, has raised alarm over the activities of criminal syndicates who have cloned his voice and are using it to scam unsuspecting Nigerians with fake promises of federal government appointments.
In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Yomi Odunuga, the SGF disclosed that the fraudsters have gone as far as impersonating high-profile individuals, cloning their phone numbers to solicit funds under false pretenses.
“From information available to the Office, the fraudsters cloned the voice of the SGF, using it to solicit money in return for federal appointments,” the statement read.
According to Odunuga, victims are contacted and told that they have been shortlisted for lucrative government positions, but are then asked to pay between ₦5 million and ₦15 million to facilitate the fake appointments. The scammers reportedly also request CVs to be sent to cloned email addresses and attach fake bank account details for deposits — many of which are allegedly hosted by new-generation banks and mobile fintech operators.
The SGF distanced himself entirely from the scam, warning the public not to fall victim and emphasizing that federal appointments follow transparent and verifiable procedures.
“The Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation has been inundated with inquiries regarding these fraudulent activities,” the statement continued.
Senator Akume urged Nigerians to be vigilant and report such criminal activities to relevant security agencies. He assured that law enforcement authorities have been briefed and are working to apprehend those behind the scam.
