As the governor of Abia State, Alex Otti clocks 61 years old, the social media space has been awash information that Otti Foundation, a non governmental organisation powered by the governor, is giving away N65,000 to Abians in the birthday celebration mood.
The rumour which has spread far and wide, with some expectant Abians already pouring encomiums on the governor, has turned out to be untrue.
The Abia State government has warned Abians and the general public that a message currently circulating online claiming that the Otti Foundation is giving out ₦65,000 cash transfers is “false and fraudulent.”
According to the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Abia State, Ukoha Njoku Ukoha, in a statement issued on Tuesday, fraudsters posted, “Gov Alex Otti 61st Birthday Celebration Cash Transfer – Gov Alex Otti Giving Out ₦65,000 to Nigerians… Powered by: Otti Foundation”.
Ukoha further warned that “key facts” are that there is no official programme yet, and that the Abia State Government, the governor, and the Alex Otti Foundation have not authorised, initiated, or endorsed any cash transfer, birthday giveaway, or ₦65,000 payment through any website or link.
He said the sites are phishing websites and are not official Abia State Government or Alex Otti Foundation domains.
“They are phishing sites designed to steal personal information, bank details, BVN, OTPs, and money from unsuspecting victims,” he said.
“Clicking the links or entering your details can lead to financial loss, identity theft, and unauthorised access to your bank and mobile money accounts.”
He advised the public to ignore, avoid, and refrain from sharing the message, warning: “Do not click the links or provide any personal or financial information.”
He added that all official information, announcements, and programmes of the Abia State government are published only through the official Abia State Government website and verified government social media handles.
