Police warn against impersonation, name-dropping of IG, senior officers

The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has warned against the impersonation of the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Usman Baba Alkali, and other senior officers of the Force. The NPF spokesperson, CSP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, issued the warning in a statement on September 19, 2023. Adejobi said that some unscrupulous individuals have been impersonating senior police officers, especially the IGP, to defraud unsuspecting members of the public. He said that these impersonators often use fake social media accounts and phone numbers to contact their victims. The NPF spokesperson said that the Force will not tolerate any act of impersonation or name-dropping of the IGP and other senior officers. He advised members of the public to be vigilant and to report any suspicious activities to the nearest police station. Here are some of the things that Adejobi said in the statement: "The Nigeria Police Force has observed with dismay the increasing cases of impersonation of the Inspector General of Police, Usman Alkali Baba, and other senior officers of the Force." "These impersonators often use fake social media accounts and phone numbers to contact their victims, promising them jobs, promotions, and other benefits in exchange for money or other favors." "The Force wishes to state categorically that it will not tolerate any act of impersonation or name-dropping of the IGP and other senior officers." "Members of the public are advised to be vigilant and to report any suspicious activities to the nearest police station." The NPF spokesperson's warning is timely and necessary. Impersonation of senior police officers is a serious crime, and it can have serious consequences for victims. Members of the public are advised to be vigilant and to report any suspicious activities to the police. Here are some tips on how to avoid being impersonated by a police officer: Be wary of anyone who contacts you claiming to be a police officer, especially if they contact you through social media or by phone. Ask for the officer's name and badge number. Ask the officer to identify themselves in person. If you are unsure of whether the officer is legitimate, you can call the police station to verify their identity. Do not give out any personal information to the officer, such as your bank account number or Social Security number. If you believe that you have been impersonated by a police officer, you should report the incident to the police immediately.