The Abia State Government has cautioned residents and members of the public over a fraudulent message currently circulating online, which falsely claims that the Otti Foundation is distributing ₦65,000 cash transfers.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Abia State, Ukoha Njoku Ukoha, described the message as fake and deceptive, noting that it originated from fraudsters attempting to exploit the governor’s name.
The misleading post reportedly reads: “Gov Alex Otti 61st Birthday Celebration Cash Transfer – Gov Alex Otti Giving Out ₦65,000 to Nigerians… Powered by: Otti Foundation.”
Ukoha clarified that there is no such programme currently in existence, stressing that neither the Abia State Government, Governor Alex Otti, nor the Alex Otti Foundation has authorised, initiated, or endorsed any cash transfer scheme, birthday giveaway, or ₦65,000 payment through any website or link.
He further warned that the links being circulated are phishing sites designed to impersonate official platforms. According to him, these fraudulent websites are not affiliated with the Abia State Government or the Alex Otti Foundation in any form.
“They are phishing sites designed to steal personal information, bank details, BVNs, OTPs, and money from unsuspecting victims,” he said. “Clicking on such links or submitting personal details can lead to financial loss, identity theft, and unauthorised access to bank or mobile money accounts.”
The government urged members of the public to ignore, avoid, and refrain from sharing the message, advising Nigerians not to click on the links or provide any personal or financial information.
“All official information, announcements, and programmes of the Abia State Government are published only through the official government website and verified social media handles,” the statement added.
