Chairman of Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Mr Ibrahim Magu, has warned fraudsters to stop using his name to extort money from Nigerians in their bid get detained persons released.

This is contained in a statement made available to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), by EFCC’s Head of Media and Publicity, Wilson Uwujaren in Abuja on Thursday.

According to the statement, “It has come to the knowledge of the EFCC that some persons have been using the name of its Chairman fraudulently.’’

It said the fraudsters also claimed that they had his permission to ask for payments to secure the release of suspects under investigation by the commission.

“The commission warns the public to be wary of the activities of these fraudulent individuals who have no relationship whatsoever with Magu and the EFCC.

“I have not mandated anybody to collect money on my behalf from any person or organisation; It is not in my character to do so, otherwise I will not be in this office.

“I am contented with what I am paid at the end of the month”, Magu was quoted as saying.

He called on members of the public, especially relatives and friends of persons under investigation by the commission to report any person who approached them to collect bribe on his behalf for the release of their loved ones.

“Anyone caught trying to tarnish my hard earned reputation and integrity must be prepared to face the music.

“I have accounts in three banks and, on no account should anybody make lodgment into any of my accounts without my knowledge”, the EFCC boss warned.

NAN reports that there has been an upsurge in the activities of scammers who parade themselves as having links with leadership of the commission and capability to release suspects.

Some of the scam calls sent to members of the public across the country, conveyed the commission’s purported readiness to “play ball, release suspects as long as reasonable settlement is arranged.”

Magu also promised that the commission will discharge its duties, “guided solely by the fear of Almighty God, the overriding interest of our fatherland, Nigeria and the rule of law and not any pecuniary motive.”

The statement advised the public to report calls from suspected scammers and forward the callers’ numbers to the EFCC via: [email protected], [email protected].

“The Commission could also be reached on:
09-9044571, 09-9044572, 09-9044573.’’ (NAN)