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Did Alex Otti ban EFCC officials from operating in Abia?

Fatimah Quadri
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Did Alex Otti ban EFCC officials from operating in Abia?

A claim that Abia State governor, Alex Otti, has banned the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) from operating in the state has surfaced online.

The claim originated from a TikTok post by a user identified as @hopestarstvtalkshow. The post – a screenshot with music background – alleged that the governor had banned the EFCC from operating or arresting any youth in the state.

READ THIS: Skit video showing EFCC officials being harassed by military personnel goes viral

The claim read:

Abia state Governor Alex Otti bans EFCC from operating in the state or arresting any abia youth.He declared Abia free from fraud urging the commission to focus on arresting Fulani Herdsmen and bandits instead.

It was also accompanied with a caption that read thus: “We want this in Edo state.”

As of June 10, 2025, the TikTok post had garnered over 37,000 likes, with more than 3,000 shares, over 2,000 comments and over 1,400 bookmarks.

Due to the sketchy nature of the claim, The FactCheckHub decided to verify its accuracy.

 

CLAIM

Alex Otti bans EFCC from operating in Abia State.

 

THE FINDINGS

Findings by The FactCheckHub show that the claim is FALSE.

When we conducted a keyword search on the post, it did not return any substantial or credible reports concerning the issue as issue of such magnitude would be widely reported by local media outlets.

Further checks show that a governor cannot legally ban the EFCC from operating in any Nigerian state.

Screenshot of appearance of the claim, Insert FALSE verdict
Screenshot of the claim retrieved from TikTok. Insert: FALSE verdict.

The EFCC was established by an Act of the National Assembly (EFCC Act, 2004) and is empowered to investigate and prosecute economic and financial crimes across all the 36 states of Nigeria and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja. Since it is a creation of federal law, it operates under the Exclusive List of the Federal Government in Nigeria under the Nigerian Constitution, meaning only the Federal Government has authority over its functions.

Under the Nigerian Constitution (1999, as amended), federal agencies are not subject to the control of the state governments. Just like governors cannot stop the police, DSS, or NDLEA from operating in their states, they cannot legally bar the EFCC either.

Nigerian courts have consistently upheld that federal agencies like the EFCC have the right to operate across Nigeria. Even where state governments try to use state laws or courts to restrain EFCC operations, federal courts usually overrule such attempts.

Speaking with The FactCheckHub, Abduljelil Egbewole, a Nigerian lawyer, noted that a state governor cannot ban EFCC from operating in any Nigerian state; however, their efforts can be frustrated.

ALSO READ: False claim circulates that Alex Otti is the first elected Labour Party governor in Nigeria

“In practice, some governors attempt to frustrate EFCC operations by denying them access to state facilities like involving state police to block or delay arrests and getting state courts to issue temporary orders against EFCC activities. But such moves are temporary and political, they do not hold legal weight in the long term and are often overturned in federal courts,” Egbewole, who is currently pursuing a Masters degree in Law at the University of Bradford, noted.

THE VERDICT

The claim that Alex Otti has banned the EFCC from operating in Abia State is FALSE; as federal agencies are not subject to the control of the state governments.

Video does not show Islamists’ attack on Christian community on Eid day in Nigeria

Nurudeen Akewushola
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Video does not show Islamists’ attack on Christian community on Eid day in Nigeria

A video showing some people scampering for safety has surfaced online with a claim that it shows an Islamic group’s invasion of a Nigerian community where residents were killed and used as sacrifice on the day of Eid-el Kabir.

An X account, @realmaloof posted the video with a caption that read:

“TERRIFYING: Christians are being hunted like animals in Nigeria.

An Islamist group invaded a Christian village and started shooting everyone in sight.

They are killing Christians on Eid and offering them as human sacrifices.

The media remains silent.”

READ THIS: How foreign-linked accounts amplify disinformation about gunmen attack in Nigeria’s Plateau state

The post has generated over 6.7 millions views, with over 103,000 likes, more than 45,000 reposts, over 13,000 bookmarks and over 4,000 comments as of June 8, 2025.

The video also surfaced here with a similar caption.

 

CLAIM

Video shows Christians attacked by an Islamist group on Sallah Day in Nigeria.

 

THE FINDINGS

Findings by The FactCheckHub show that the claim is MISLEADING.

The FactCheckHub subjected the keyframes in the video to a Google Reverse Image Search, and the results show that the incident occurred before the Eid-el-Kabir celebration in Nigeria.

The earliest version of the video was traced to Wednesday, June 4, 2025, while Eid-el-Kabir (Sallah) was celebrated in Nigeria on Friday, June 6, 2025.

Screenshot of the viral X post. Insert: MISLEADING verdict.

Further findings reveal that the video was originally shared on Facebook by the Irigwe Youth Movement. The Irigwe are an indigenous ethnic group located in the Bassa Local Government Area of Plateau State.

According to the group, the distressing video was recorded on June 4, 2025, in Kwall District of Bassa LGA, following the killing of three residents allegedly by armed herders a day earlier (June 3).

Punch reported that the deceased were identified as Sunday Ishaya (37), Joshua Mishi (51), and Range Kpeh (32).

Kwall, situated about an hour’s drive from Jos, the Plateau State capital, is home to the Nigerian College of Accountancy, managed by the Association of National Accountants of Nigeria.

The community has been plagued by a wave of violent incidents this year. Many residents have been killed in separate attacks, some while working on their farms, others ambushed on roads.

For instance, in April 2025, HumAngle reported that gunmen stormed the local government area, killing 40 people in a single attack. In March, three people were ambushed and killed in the Local Government.

In Wednesday’s protest by Irigwe youths that followed Tuesday’s killing by armed herders, the community alleged that Nigerian military personnel opened fire on unarmed demonstrators, who had gathered to express their grief and frustration over ongoing violence, despite military presence in the area.

While groups like Boko Haram and the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) —classified as Islamist groups — have been blamed for numerous attacks in Nigeria, the Kwall community attributes the violence in their area to armed herders, who they accuse of attempting to displace indigenous populations to seize fertile farmland.

Plateau State, home to nearly 40 ethnic groups, has long been a flashpoint for violent conflict. Clashes, often labelled as ethno-religious, particularly between Muslim Fulani herders and Christian farming communities, have deeper roots in climate change, land scarcity, and resource competition, according to analysts.

The Fulani, traditionally nomadic pastoralists from northern Nigeria, have increasingly migrated southward in search of better grazing land. Some have settled permanently in host communities, but growing urbanisation and pastoral land shortages have driven others to encroach on farmlands, including national parks and protected forests.

This encroachment leads to crop destruction, fueling tensions and retaliatory violence. Farmers often respond by attacking herders and their livestock, creating a cycle of violence that has become common in Plateau and other North Central states in the country.

As Human Rights Watch noted, one of the major challenges in addressing the violence in Plateau State is the difficulty in identifying perpetrators. Unlike the bandit groups in the Northwest or Boko Haram in the Northeast, no group has consistently claimed responsibility for the killings in the state.

ALSO READ: Photo of yam market set ablaze in Plateau is MISLEADING!

This lack of a major terrorist group that can be held responsible has opened the door to speculation, false narratives, and conspiracy theories about the identities of the attackers.

Misinformation, often driven by ethno-religious sentiments, continues to obscure the facts and fuel tensions. This has contributed significantly to the escalation and persistence of violence in Plateau State over the years.

Previously, The FactCheckHub reported how foreign-linked actors helped amplify false claims regarding the Christmas Eve 2023 attacks, further complicating the security situation and deepening public mistrust in Africa’s most populous nation.

 

THE VERDICT

The claim that the video shows an Islamist group killing Christians on Eid-el-Kabir is MISLEADING. The incident occurred on June 4, 2025 — two days before the Sallah celebration. It was linked to a protest in Kwall, Plateau State, following the killing of three residents allegedly by armed herders a day earlier (June 3).

How Facebook Ads fuel phishing scams in Nigeria

Abdullahi Muritala
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How Facebook Ads fuel phishing scams in Nigeria

In recent years, Facebook, owned by Meta Platforms Inc, has evolved into a powerful advertising platform, allowing businesses and individuals to reach millions of users worldwide. But, while legitimate businesses thrive, malicious actors have also exploited Facebook’s ads system to promote phishing scams—fraudulent schemes designed to steal users’ personal information, financial data, and social media credentials.

Despite Meta’s claims of investing heavily in artificial intelligence and human reviewers to combat malicious content, evidence suggests that phishing scams continue to slip through the cracks, posing serious threats to user security.

READ THIS: 5 common types of phishing and how to avoid being a victim

The FactCheckHub has published several fact-checks on phishing scams and tutorials on identifying phishing scams, websites and viral WhatsApp messages.

A recent investigation conducted by The FactCheckHub revealed multiple active phishing campaigns on Facebook, with some ads running for weeks before removal. This raises questions about the effectiveness of Meta’s moderation system and whether its profit-driven ad model incentivizes leniency toward potentially harmful content.

 

The mechanics of Facebook phishing Ads 

Phishing scams on Facebook typically masquerade as legitimate businesses, popular brands, or urgent notifications. These deceptive ads often promise enticing offers such as free giveaways, job opportunities, or security alerts to lure users into clicking. Once a user engages with the ad, they are redirected to a fake website that mimics a trusted platform, where they are prompted to input sensitive information.

An illustration showing how scammers steal your personal data.
An illustration showing how scammers steal your personal data.

Our researcher observed that some of the phishing campaigns involve multiple posts impersonating popular brands and individuals.

Impersonation of popular brands and personalities

Fraudsters create fake ads pretending to be reputable companies, offering too-good-to-be-true deals. The FactCheckHub has debunked claims about MTN offering free airtime data for subscribers across Africa, a claim growing fast-paced on the platform, which sometimes can maliciously extort data of the users that submit their information.

Beyond that, he monitored multiple Facebook ads which promoted phishing scams branded with images of notable personalities including the current Nigerian vice president, Kashim Shettima; the Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III; Niger State governor, Muhammed Bago, and the Emir of Kano, Sanusi Lamido Sanusi etc.

ALSO READ: How PEPT judgement, Niger and Gabon coups fuel misinformation on X

He observed that the scammers exploit moments like the festive periods and also the current economic hardship in Nigeria to create scams paraded as grants or palliatives but which are aimed at stealing people’s information with the intent to harm or swindle victims.

For instance, our researcher discovered two different posts on the Facebook Ads model that advertised a grant application allegedly from Vice President Shettima and asked applicants to submit their bank details. One of the posts had over 9,000 likes with over 10,800 comments and more than 100 shares as seen below.

The sponsored Facebook ads offering grants to Nigerians as retrieved by our researcher.
The sponsored Facebook ads offering grants to Nigerians as retrieved by our researcher. Insert: FALSE verdict.

Similarly, another sponsored Facebook post in the guise of offering grants, asks applicants to apply for N88,900 grant linked to the Nigerian government with the image of Shettima. The Ads had significant traction too with over 7,100 likes, over 7,200 comments and more than 50 shares.

The screenshot of a phishing scam that advertises Nigerian government grant.
The screenshot of a phishing scam that advertises Nigerian government grant. Insert: FALSE verdict.

Our researcher also observed another sponsored Facebook post in Hausa, one of the major Nigerian languages. When translated into English, it means “Stand a chance to be among those who benefit from this palliative.” It invited applications for a N200,000 grant citing fintech companies like Kuda, Opay, and Moniepoint as mediums of disbursement. The post, which has generated traction online with over 3,500 likes and more than 1,600 comments, also used the image of Kano emir, Sanusi Lamido Sanusi, as the brand’s ambassador.

Screenshot of the sponsored Facebook post impersonating the Emir of Kano.
Screenshot of the sponsored Facebook post impersonating the Emir of Kano. Insert: FALSE verdict.

How phishing Ads bypass Facebook’s detection system

Meta’s ads review process, which combines automated systems with human oversight, has notable vulnerabilities that scammers exploit. Tactics such as dynamic URL switching, where the destination URL of an ad is changed post-approval to redirect users to malicious sites, and cloaking techniques, which present benign content to reviewers while displaying harmful material to users, are commonly employed.

FILE PHOTO: An illustration about Facebook ads.

Similarly, geotargeting is used to restrict scam visibility to specific regions, making detection more challenging. These methods allow malicious ads to bypass Meta’s advertising review mechanisms and reach unsuspecting users. Reports indicate that scammers can create new pages and run deceptive ads within minutes, often reusing content from legitimate businesses to appear credible.

 

The human cost of phishing scams

The consequences of falling for a phishing scam are severe. Victims often report unauthorized bank transactions, identity theft, and loss of access to social media accounts. Small businesses have also been targeted, with fraudulent ads leading to compromised accounts and reputational damage.

DON’T MISS THIS: How scam, fraudulent actors take advantage of COVID-19

In Nigeria where digital literacy varies widely, these scams pose serious threat to online users. The rapid rise of online transactions combined with limited consumer protection leaves many users vulnerable.

 

What Meta says—and what critics argue  

Meta asserts that it actively removes harmful content and has enhanced its ad review processes. In 2024, the company reported significant efforts to combat deceptive advertisements, including the removal of over 8,000 fraudulent “celeb bait” ads in collaboration with Australian banks. This initiative was part of broader measures to tighten ad regulations, especially for financial services, requiring advertisers to verify their credentials before running ads.

However, critics argue that Meta’s approach remains largely reactive and lacks sufficient transparency. Digital rights advocates have called for stronger pre-approval mechanisms and independent audits of Facebook’s ad ecosystem to ensure accountability. Concerns have been raised about the effectiveness of Meta’s content moderation policies, especially after the company replaced third-party fact-checkers with a community-based system in the United States and announced plans to implement this globally, leading to unease among advertisers regarding brand safety.

 

Experts offer counsels to address rising spread of phishing scams 

In a Guardian article, the Director of Consumer Investments at the UK’s Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), Lucy Castledine, criticized Meta for being the slowest among social media platforms to remove financial scam content, sometimes taking up to six weeks to act on takedown requests. She emphasised that such delays undermine efforts to combat online financial fraud and called for proactive use of algorithms to detect scam content, rather than relying solely on reactive measures.

Similarly, a cybersecurity expert, Darren Guccione, highlighted the rise of AI-enhanced scams, noting that scammers use sophisticated techniques like deepfakes to impersonate trusted individuals, thereby increasing the likelihood of deceiving victims. He warned that these scams can lead to significant financial losses, as they exploit the trust users place in familiar faces and voices.

Also commenting, Philip Anjorin, a fact-checker at Dubawa, said phishing scams sponsored through Facebook ads are especially dangerous because of the platform’s dominant user demographic, especially individuals aged over 40 who often lack strong media and digital literacy. He explained that this group is more susceptible to misleading sponsored ads, which Facebook does not regulate strictly enough.

ALSO READ: How TikTok allows users to promote misinformation about brands – Report

Compared to platforms like TikTok and Twitter, where users are typically more digitally native, Facebook’s environment poses greater risks, Anjorin stated. He noted that the issue is even more concerning in countries like Nigeria, where Meta has come under criticism for poor data privacy practices, referencing recent issues with the Federal Competition & Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) as a cause for alarm.

To combat this growing threat, Anjorin recommends the creation of targeted media literacy initiatives aimed at educating older users on how to identify and avoid phishing scams.

He also urges Meta to improve its ads regulation systems, particularly for vulnerable user segments. Lastly, he suggests that governments especially in regions like Nigeria should engage in active partnerships with Meta to enforce stronger safety protocols and data protection standards. These steps, he emphasized, are necessary to reduce users’ exposure to digital harm and build a more secure online space for netizens.

Photo does not show Boko Haram attack on Buratai town

Nurudeen Akewushola
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Photo does not show Boko Haram attack on Buratai town

A Facebook page, IgbereTV News, has posted a photo showing houses engulfed by fire with a claim that it shows a recent Boko Haram attack on Buratai, the hometown of Nigeria’s former Chief of Army Staff, Tukur Buratai.

The post, published on June 5, 2025, featured a fiery explosion and was captioned:

 “BREAKING! Boko Haram Attacks Hometown Of Nigeria’s Ex-Army Chief Tukur Buratai (Happening Now).”

READ THIS: Is Nigeria safer than five years ago as claimed by its Army Chief?

The post has since garnered over 600 reposts and more than 100 shares as of June 6, 2025.

 

CLAIM

Photo shows a recent Boko Haram attack on Buratai’s hometown in Borno State.

 

THE FINDINGS

Checks by The FactCheckHub revealed that the claim is MISLEADING.

The FactCheckHub found out that the photo is circulating following the reported attempted attack on Buratai and Mallam Fatori on June 5, 2025. However, multiple media reports confirm that troops of Operation Hadin Kai foiled the assault. According to Punch, the Nigerian military repelled the terrorists, neutralised several fighters, and recovered weapons.

DON’T MISS THIS: Nigeria’s ‘Double Pandemic’ and Boko Haram’s Response to COVID-19

A Google reverse image search shows that the photo is not related to any recent attack on Buratai town. Our fact-checker observed that the image was first shared online in March 2023, noting that it was from a military operation conducted by Nigerian troops under Operation Hadin Kai, in collaboration with the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF).

Screenshot of the viral Facebook post.

According to counter-insurgency news platform, Zagazola Makama and AIT News, the image was taken after a successful operation in Dikwa Local Government Area of Borno State, where 41 Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) fighters, including a commander named Abu Zahra, were killed.

ALSO READ: Nigerian influencer makes false claims about Boko Haram insurgency, kidnapping

The troops reportedly carried out a midnight offensive in Mukdolo, GUPDILO, and Bone villages between Dikwa, Ngala, and Mafa LGAs. The operation was led by Major General Shaibu Waidi, the General Officer Commanding 7 Division and Commander Sector 1, the media reports noted.

Additionally, our fact-checker observed that Tukur Buratai is from Buratai, a town in Biu Local Government Area of Borno State, while the military operation occurred in Dikwa LGA.

The original photo has no connection to Buratai town or any incident occurring in June 2025.

 

THE VERDICT

The claim that the photo shows a recent Boko Haram attack on Buratai’s hometown is MISLEADING. The photo was taken in March 2023 during a military operation in Dikwa LGA of Borno State.

Old report of deceased police deputy commissioner resurfaces online

Nurudeen Akewushola
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Old report of deceased police deputy commissioner resurfaces online

A Facebook account, Peter Obi for President PFP, has claimed that a Deputy Commissioner of Police, Muhammad Guri, died inside his office in Abuja recently.

The account posted the information alongside a photo of a man lying on the floor, with a caption thus:

“Nigerian Deputy Commissioner Of Police, Guri Slumps, Dies Inside Office In Abuja.”

The post has generated traction on the social platform with about 100 reactions as of June 4, 2025.

READ THIS: Serving as Lagos police commissioner is NOT prerequisite for IG appointment

 

The claim also appeared here and here with the same caption.

 

CLAIM

Deputy Commissioner of Police, Muhammad Guri, slumped and died inside his office in Abuja recently.

 

THE FINDINGS

Findings by The FactCheckHub show that the claim is MISLEADING.

A keyword search conducted online reveals that the Nigerian police Deputy Commissioner, Muhammad Guri, actually died on June 3, 2024, and reputable media platforms widely reported his death at the time.

The Nigerian Tribune and Vanguard reported in June 2024 that Guri died at the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) Headquarters in Abuja after he reportedly slumped in his office. Witnesses said the officer, dressed in uniform, showed no signs of illness before he collapsed. Medical efforts to revive him were unsuccessful.

Contrary to the viral Facebook post implying a recent death in 2025, the incident happened a year ago.

Screenshot of the Facebook post. Insert: MISLEADING verdict.

Furthermore, The FactCheckHub scoured through media reports and official handles of the police and we couldn’t find any recent report related to the incident.

Additionally, a reverse image search and visual analysis of the photo attached to the Facebook post shows that the man lying on the floor is not the late Guri. The individual in the photo is wearing a traditional purple outfit and glasses, while DCP Guri was reportedly in uniform when he collapsed.

ALSO READ: New acting Chief Justice, Tanko Muhammad did attend law school and was called to bar

A comparison with verified photos of Guri, where were reported by credible media outlets, confirmed that the person in the viral photo has a different facial structure, body type, and appearance.

Image of the late DCP Guri. Source: Tribune Online

This shows that the image was used out of context to re-circulate an old story and mislead the public.

 

THE VERDICT

The claim that the Nigerian police Deputy Commissioner, Muhammad Guri recently died in his office in Abuja is MISLEADING. Guri died in June 2024, not 2025, and the photo used in the Facebook post does not depict him either.

False claim about man arrested for selling vultures in Abuja goes viral

Fatimah Quadri
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False claim about man arrested for selling vultures in Abuja goes viral

A claim that a man selling vultures allegedly as chickens for consumption in Abuja has been arrested.

The claim, which surfaced online on June 2, 2025, was posted by an X user @drpenking.

The post featured an image showing a man squatting beside an animal from the bird family, with sacks nearby from which birds’ beaks were visibly seen.

READ THIS: Video of people looting buried chickens is NOT recent

The post alleged that the man was selling these wild birds as chicken in Nigeria’s Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

The post read:

This guy was said to sell the biggest chicken thighs in Abuja. Today he was caught and it turns out he sells vultures as chicken.

It has garnered over 2.6 million views, with over 23,000 likes, more than 3,600 reposts and 2,300 comments as of June 4, 2025.

 

CLAIM

Image shows man arrested in Abuja for selling vultures as chickens.

 

THE FINDINGS

Checks by The FactCheckHub show that the claim is FALSE!

When our fact-checker conducted a Google Lens search on the image, the results led her to previous appearance of the image on X alongside a press release by the Uganda Police Force posted in 2023.

The statement noted that the incident occurred in Kiteezi and expressed concern over the illegal possession of wild species, particularly the Marabou stork, by four individuals.

They confirmed that all four suspects had been arrested and charged, and added that prosecution would follow in line with the law. This was also widely reported by local media outlets in Uganda as seen here and here.

Screenshot of the claim on X. Insert: MISLEADING verdict.
Screenshot of the claim on X. Insert: MISLEADING verdict.

Additionally, our researcher compared and contrast storks and vultures and noted that storks typically have long, straight beaks and fully feathered heads and necks, while vultures have hooked beaks adapted for tearing flesh and often have bald or sparsely feathered heads to stay clean while feeding.

DON’T MISS THIS: Does excessive sugar cause diabetes? Analysing Nigeria’s claim for taxing sugar beverages

Further checks show that storks have sleek bodies and long legs suited for wading in water, whereas vultures are bulkier with broad wings and strong claws adapted for soaring and scavenging.

 

THE VERDICT

The claim that the image showed a man arrested in Abuja for selling vultures as chickens is FALSE; the incident took place in Uganda and the birds in the image were storks, not vultures.

Two years in office: Fact-checking Tinubu’s mid-term performance claims

Abdullahi Muritala, Nurudeen Akewushola and Fatimah Quadri
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Two years in office: Fact-checking Tinubu’s mid-term performance claims

THE Nigerian president, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, marked his second year in office on May 29, 2025 and delivered an anniversary speech. In the speech, he highlighted key achievements, policy reforms, and economic growth in the country under his administration. While the speech aims to reassure Nigerians of his government’s commitment to fulfilling his renewed hope promises, it also contained several claims that warrant closer scrutiny.

The FactCheckHub examined the accuracy of some of the major statements made by Tinubu, separating facts from political rhetoric to provide a clearer and accurate picture of his administration’s performance. Here are some of them:

 

CLAIM 1

Multiple foreign exchange windows eliminated in Nigeria.

THE FINDINGS

Findings by The FactCheckHub show that the claim is TRUE.

One of the major reforms championed by Tinubu’s administration is the elimination of its multiple exchange rate system. On June 14, 2023, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) unified all segments of the foreign exchange market into a single window—the Investors and Exporters (I&E) window—where rates are determined by market forces under a “willing buyer, willing seller” model.

READ THIS: Two years on: Tinubu administration continues to reel out misleading information

This policy shift was part of broader economic reforms initiated by the Tinubu-led administration to enhance transparency, attract foreign investment, and reduce opportunities for arbitrage and corruption associated with the previous multiple exchange rate regime.

While the unification has led to a more market-reflective exchange rate, it has also resulted in significant volatility and a sharp depreciation of the naira. For instance, the naira fell to record lows against the U.S. dollar in both official and parallel markets following the reform.

As of May 29, 2025, the official exchange rate stands at approximately ₦1,586 per U.S. dollar. However, disparities between the official and parallel market rates persist, indicating that while the multiple exchange rate windows have been abolished, full convergence between official and unofficial rates is yet to be achieved.

THE VERDICT

The claim that the multiple foreign exchange windows has been eliminated is TRUE; public records revealed.

 

CLAIM 2

Nigeria’s debt service-to-revenue ratio dropped from 100% in 2022 to under 40% by 2024.

THE FINDINGS

Checks by The FactCheckHub show that the claim is FALSE.

In 2022, Nigeria’s debt service-to-revenue ratio was very high. The World Bank reported that the country spent 96.3% of its revenue on debt servicing that year. Additionally, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) indicated that the ratio reached 111.8% same year.

In the first quarter of 2024, debt servicing consumed about 74% of the federal government’s retained revenue. By July 2024, the nation’s Finance minister, Wale Edun, stated that the ratio had declined from 97% in 2023 to 68% in 2024.

Also, President Tinubu, during the inauguration ceremony of newly appointed ministers in November 2024, announced that the ratio had further decreased to 65%, attributing the improvement to economic reforms.

However, an April 2025 report by CNBCAfrica and News Central TV noted that Nigeria’s debt servicing costs soared to 144% of government retained revenue in January 2025, citing a Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) report.

THE VERDICT

The claim that the debt service-to-revenue ratio dropped from 100% in 2022 to under 40% by 2024 is FALSE; findings show that while there was notable decrease to around 65% in November 2024, it soared to 144% by January 2025, according to media reports.

CLAIM 3

Inflation has begun to decline, and the prices of staples like rice are falling across Nigeria.

THE FINDINGS

Findings by The FactCheckHub show that the claim is TRUE.

Nigeria recently rebased its consumer price index (CPI) from 2009 to 2024, leading to a significant drop in the reported inflation rate from 34.80 per cent to 24.48 per cent in January 2025.

Inflation rate rebasing follows a structured approach led by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) to improve the accuracy of inflation measurements. Essentially what it means is that the NBS expanded its data collection efforts to include a broader range of states, local government areas, and rural communities.

Since the rebasing, inflation headline has begun to go downward spiral. It dropped to 23.18 per cent, 24.23% and 23.71 per cent in February, March and April 2025 respectively.

Surveys conducted in major markets across Nigeria indicate a substantial decrease in the prices of essential food items recently.

For instance, in Lagos, the price of a 50kg bag of rice dropped from ₦90,000–₦95,000 in January 2025 to around ₦75,000 by March.  The cost of a 50kg bag of beans decreased from ₦105,000 in January to ₦80,000.

These price reductions are attributed to several factors, including improved agricultural practices, favorable weather conditions leading to bumper harvests, and the cessation of hoarding activities by traders. Additionally, government initiatives to boost food production and the lifting of bans on certain food imports have increased supply, contributing to the price decline.

Despite these positive developments, challenges persist. While food prices have decreased, they remain relatively high compared to previous years, and many Nigerians continue to struggle with food affordability. Moreover, factors such as climate change-induced water scarcity and security issues in farming regions in the country continue to pose risks to sustained agricultural productivity.

THE VERDICT

The claim that inflation has begun to decline, and the prices of staples like rice are falling is TRUE. However, the inflation came down after NBS changed the methodology while the prices of food stuff are nothing near the previous years prices, prior to Tinubu’s administration.

 

CLAIM 4

Tinubu says over 1,000 PHCs have been revitalized while 5,500 more are being upgraded.

THE FINDINGS

Findings by The FactCheckHub show that the claim is MOSTLY FALSE.

In April 2025, multiple media outlets such as Premium Times, Guardian and Punch reported that the federal government had upgraded 901 PHC’s with 2,700 more to be targeted this year

The Executive Director and CEO of the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA), Dr. Muyi Aina, disclosed this during the PHC update and 2025 African Vaccination Week press briefing held in Abuja.

THE VERDICT

The claim that Tinubu’s administration has revitalized over 1,000 Primary Health Care Centres is MOSTLY FALSE; media reports indicate that they were 901 as of April 2025, though there was no May 2025 data.

 

CLAIM 5

Nigeria’s oil rig counts up by over 400% in 2025 compared to 2021.

THE FINDINGS

Checks by The FactCheckHub show that the claim is TRUE.

Nigeria’s oil rig count is a vital indicator of upstream oil and gas activities, reflecting the nation’s exploration and production efforts. Historically, the rig count has fluctuated due to various factors, including global oil prices, domestic policies, and industry dynamics.

In recent years, there has been a notable increase in Nigeria’s rig count, attributed to the implementation of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), which has fostered a more favorable environment for investment and operations in the sector.

The Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) plays a pivotal role in overseeing and regulating upstream petroleum operations in Nigeria.

DON’T MISS THIS: In Democracy Day speech, Buhari’s GDP growth rate contradicts figures from CBN, IMF, others

Established under the PIA, the NUPRC is responsible for ensuring compliance with industry standards, promoting transparency, and facilitating sustainable development in the oil and gas sector.

As part of its mandate, the NUPRC publishes the Rig Disposition Report, a comprehensive document that provides detailed information on the status and distribution of drilling rigs across Nigeria. According to the report, Nigeria has a rig count of 62 as of April 2025. This is 675% higher than eight that it was in 2021.

THE VERDICT

The claim that Nigeria’s oil rig counts increased by over 400% in 2025 compared to 2021 is TRUE; data by NUPRC show.

 

CLAIM 6

Nigeria’s fiscal deficit reduced from 5.4% of GDP in 2023 to 3.0% in 2024.

THE FINDINGS

Findings by The FactCheckHub show the claim is TRUE.

In Nigeria, a fiscal deficit occurs when the government’s total expenditure exceeds its total revenue (excluding borrowings) within a fiscal year. This situation indicates that the government is spending more than it earns, necessitating borrowing to finance the gap. Persistent fiscal deficits can lead to increased public debt and may impact economic stability.

The fiscal deficit is calculated by subtracting the total government revenue (excluding borrowings) from the total government expenditure. To assess the deficit relative to the size of the economy, it is often expressed as a percentage of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP). This metric helps in evaluating the government’s fiscal health and sustainability.

According to Nigeria’s Fiscal Responsibility Act, the fiscal deficit should not exceed 3% of the country’s GDP to ensure fiscal discipline and economic stability.

According to World Bank, the Nigerian government revenue rose by 4.5% of GDP last year, a “remarkable achievement” driven by the removal of foreign exchange subsidies, improved tax administration and higher remittances.

The higher revenue helped cut the fiscal deficit to an estimated 3% of GDP in 2024, from 5.4% in 2023.

THE VERDICT

The claim that Nigeria’s fiscal deficit reduced from 5.4% of GDP in 2023 to 3.0% in 2024 is TRUE; the World Bank data show.

 

CLAIM 7

Ways and Means financing discontinued by Tinubu’s administration.

THE FINDINGS

Checks by The FactCheckHub show that the claim is TRUE.

According to a Punch report, Ways and Means is the money that the CBN lends to the Nigerian government in the meantime to augment spending based on the time the revenue is generated.

Reports from The Cable and Punch show that the current administration halted the Way and Means loan in an announcement made by the CBN governor, Olayemi Cardoso, on February 9, 2024, in an appearance before the Senate Committees on Finance, Appropriations, Banking, Insurance, and Other Financial Institutions.

THE VERDICT

The claim that the way and means loan was discontinued during Tinubu-led administration is TRUE, media reports confirmed.

CLAIM 8

Nigeria’s external reserves grew from $4 billion in 2023 to over $23 billion by end of 2024.

THE FINDINGS

Check by The FactCheckHub shows that the claim is TRUE.

The CBN reported that Nigeria’s net foreign exchange (FX) reserves (NFER) increased from $3.99 billion at the end of 2023 to $23.11 billion by December 2024, marking a 479% rise and the highest level in over three years. According to a Vanguard report, the CBN stated that the $23.11 billion figure represents a significant recovery from $3.99 billion at year-end 2023, $8.19 billion in 2022, and $14.59 billion in 2021. This was also corroborated by a TVC News video report.

THE VERDICT

The claim that Nigeria’s external reserves grew from $4 billion in 2023 to over $23 billion by end of 2024 is TRUE; reports from credible media outlets confirmed.

 

CLAIM 9

Health insurance enrollees expanded from 16 million to 20 million in Nigeria.

THE FINDINGS

Findings by The FactCheckHub show that the claim is MOSTLY TRUE.

In December 2024, the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) announced an increase in insurance coverage from 16.7 million to approximately 19.2 million individuals — a 14% rise in less than a year. NHIA Director-General, Dr. Kelechi Ohiri, revealed this during a media parley in December 2024.

ALSO READ: Did Oyo IGR increase by 26.4%, Is Kaduna planning to tax everyone above 18?

This was also reiterated a few days later by Dr. Ohiri at the Universal Health Coverage (UHC) Day event, where he emphasized the need to further scale up enrollment in 2025 to 20 million.

THE VERDICT

The claim that Nigeria’s health insurance have been expanded from 16 million to 20 million enrollees is MOSTLY TRUE; 19.2 million Nigerians have been enrolled as at December 2024.

 

CLAIM 10

Nigeria’s GDP recorded 4.6% growth in Q4 2024 and a full-year 2024 growth at 3.4%.

THE FINDINGS

Checks by The FactCheckHub show that the claim is TRUE!

In 2024, Nigeria’s economy showed notable resilience, recording a GDP growth of 4.6% in the fourth quarter and an overall annual growth rate of 3.4%, Proshare reported. This marks one of the country’s strongest economic performances in the past decade, driven by robust aggregate demand, improved agricultural output, and a rebound in key non-oil sectors.

According to the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), the services sector was the primary driver of this growth, expanding by 5.37% in Q4 2024 and contributing 57.38% to the total GDP, Vanguard also reported in February 2025. Key contributors within the sector included financial services, insurance, and telecommunications.

THE VERDICT

The claim that Nigeria’s GDP grew by 4.6% in Q4 2024, and full year growth at 3.4 % is TRUE.

CableCheck, 22 others get IFCN 2025 BUILD grant

Fatimah Quadri
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CableCheck, 22 others get IFCN 2025 BUILD grant

CableCheck and 22 other fact-checking organisations spread across 20 countries have been awarded the BUILD 2025 round of the Global Fact-Check Fund managed by the International Fact-Checking Network (IFCN) at the Poynter Institute.

This was disclosed via a statement signed by the IFCN director, Angie Holan, on May 29, 2025. The grants are aimed at promoting and strengthening fact-checking journalism worldwide.

The statement noted that each recipient will receive $25,000 in flexible funding to cover essential operational expenses such as staffing, training, equipment, and technology.

READ THIS: IFCN announces speakers for Global Fact 12

This support is designed to enhance their capacity to debunk misinformation on issues of public importance and help the public develop stronger critical thinking skills when consuming information.

The statement highlighted that to qualify for the fund, organisations had to be signatories of the IFCN Code of Principles, which involves a voluntary commitment and a verification process to ensure adherence to global standards of transparency, independence, impartiality, and methodology.

The fund also accepted applications from other organisations that were endorsed by an IFCN signatory. In total, 14 signatory organisations and nine endorsed outlets were awarded grants.

Holan highlighted that supporting fact-checkers helps strengthen global information integrity and it’s a powerful way to promote accountability and public trust.

“When we invest in fact-checking, we’re not just investing in individual organisations. We’re strengthening information integrity worldwide.

Supporting fact-checkers is one of the most impactful investments we can make in accountability, transparency, and public trust,” she said.

Speaking with The FactCheckHub, Ebunoluwa Olafusi, the Fact-check Editor at CableCheck who is one of the beneficiaries, noted that the grant would help to boost its fact-checking efforts through stronger collaborations, improved access to verification tools, expanded staff, and training to combat misinformation more effectively.

“We plan to strengthen our fact-checking operations and expand our impact by doing more rigorous work and emphasising factual information. We also intend to work and collaborate with fact-checking organisations to reach a wider audience.

“One of the unique challenges we faced in combating misinformation was accessing a few verification tools. With the grant, we will be able to access more tools, get more hands on the desk and also facilitate trainings on how to curb misinformation and disinformation in the information landscape,” Olafusi said.

She highlighted that being part of the Global Fact Check Fund reinforces its commitment to publishing accurate information. She added that the opportunity would foster networking and collaboration with international peers and other industry stakeholders, while also strengthening CableCheck’s role in global conversations.

ALSO READ: Global Fact-Check Fund: FactCheckHub, Dubawa, 33 others get Google/YouTube grant

Since its launch in 2023, the Global Fact Check Fund has allocated over $8.5 million to 174 journalism organisations across 72 countries through its three funding levels: BUILD, GROW, and ENGAGE. Later this year, a call for applications will open for the GROW tier, which offers $50,000 grants for fact-checking initiatives.

Below are the list of grant winners by region:

Africa

  • CableCheck
  • Radio Erena
  • Local Voices Media Network

Asia-Pacific

  • Mizzima Media
  • Danbi FactCheck
  • MindaNews

Europe

  • Lakmusz
  • PA Media
  • Azbuka Media
  • FactReview

Latin America

  • ChequeaBolivia
  • Efecto Cocuyo
  • Lupa
  • Bolivia Verifica
  • Mala Espina

Middle East and North Africa

  • Kashif
  • CancerDisinfo

North America

  • Mas Voces Foundation
  • International Consortium of Investigative Journalists

South Asia

  • NewsMobile
  • Digiteye
  • Digital Forensics, Research and Analytics Center
  • Soch Fact Check

NIMASA DG falsely claims zero piracy in Nigeria’s waterways in last three years

Abdullahi Muritala
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NIMASA DG falsely claims zero piracy in Nigeria’s waterways in last three years

The Director General (DG) of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Dr. Dayo Mobereola, recently claimed that Nigeria’s territorial waterways recorded zero piracy attacks in the last three years.

He disclosed this in a short video teaser shared in the public WhatsApp channel managed by the Nigerian presidency under the name “StateHouse NG (The Aso Villa)” on May 24, 2025.

The 74-second video teaser was also posted by the Nigerian presidency on its official X account and YouTube channel same day as seen here and here. The full interview is expected to be released to the public anytime soon.

READ THIS: Nigerian presidency repeats lies, half-truths on infrastructure projects in South-East (Part 1)

The caption accompanying the teaser in the WhatsApp channel reads:

“”Zero Piracy in Nigeria’s Waters in 3 years?”

“In this short clip from an upcoming episode of Unfiltered: The Big Interview, Dr. Dayo Mobereola, Director-General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), makes a bold declaration: Nigeria has not recorded a single case of piracy in its territorial waters. It is now one of the safest in the world. 

“Hosted by Otega ‘The Tiger’ Ogra, this episode dives into Nigeria’s maritime security gains, the Blue Economy vision, and NIMASA’s role in positioning Nigeria as a secure shipping hub in Africa.

“Watch, share, and join the conversation on how maritime security reforms are reshaping Nigeria’s global image.”

The transcripts of the video teaser also read:

“Nigeria’s territorial water had been at peace. For the past three years, there had been no single piracy. The US Coast Guard went on inspection of all our ports, jetties, critical installations in Nigeria and said everything that they inspected have given them a summary to say that Nigeria inland waterways, coastal waterways is one of the safest in the whole world. NIMASA has repositioned itself take a bet on us and I can assure you this is a lottery that you will not lose. You will win,” Dr. Mobereola stated in the footage.

DON’T MISS THIS: Did Lagos record zero bank robbery in four years?

Recall that the Nigerian president, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, on March 12, 2024 announced the appointment of Dr. Mobereola as NIMASA DG for a renewable four-year term in a statement by Ajuri Ngelale, the then presidential spokesperson.

CLAIM

There has been no single piracy in Nigeria’s waterways in the last three years.

 

THE FINDINGS

Check by The FactCheckHub show that the claim is FALSE, as multiple reports from credible media outlets and the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) indicated that there were at least three pirate attacks between May 2022 and May 2025.

In the context of Nigeria’s coastal waters, piracy refers to criminal acts committed at sea, especially against ships, boats, crew members or offshore installations. Article 101 of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea says piracy consists of the following acts:

(a). any illegal acts of violence or detention, or any act of depredation, committed for private ends by the crew or the passengers of a private ship or a private aircraft, and directed: (i) on the high seas, against another ship or aircraft, or against persons or property on board such ship or aircraft; (ii) against a ship, aircraft, persons or property in a place outside the jurisdiction of any State;

(b). any act of voluntary participation in the operation of a ship or of an aircraft with knowledge of facts making it a pirate ship or aircraft;

(c). any act of inciting or of intentionally facilitating an act described in subparagraph (a) or (b).

FILE PHOTO: Pirates on a gunship. This is solely used for illustration purpose.
FILE PHOTO: Pirates on a gunship. This is solely used for illustration purpose.

These acts include hijacking vessels, kidnapping crew or passengers for ransom, robbery of goods, fuel, or cash onboard and attacks on oil infrastructure that usually occur in the Gulf of Guinea, which includes Nigeria’s maritime zone, one of the global piracy hotspots until recently, though a 2022 report by TheCable noted that pirate incidents had declined that year.

To verify the accuracy of the claim, our researcher reviewed piracy reports from May 2022 till May 2025 and found at least three piracy attacks reported by credible media outlets and the International Maritime Organisation (IMO).

Although media reports as seen here, here and here confirmed that 2022 was pirate-free for the Nigerian maritime, there were two confirmed cases in 2023.

For instance, on June 5, 2023, there was a suspected pirate attack on two passenger boats along the waterways of Rivers State that reportedly left one female passenger feared dead. The incident occurred as the boats were enroute from Abonema to Kula, both in Akuku-Toru Local Government Area of the state, Punch reported. According to maritime union sources, each vessel was carrying around 12 passengers when the assailants struck mid-journey. In an attempt to evade capture, many of the passengers reportedly jumped into the river.

Screenshot of the video posted on the State House NG's WhatsApp channel. INSERT: FALSE verdict.
Screenshot of the video posted on the State House NG’s WhatsApp channel. INSERT: FALSE verdict.

Also, The Africa Report reported that on June 26, 2023, no fewer than 8 staff of MRS Oil Nigeria Plc were abducted while they boarded a boat at a jetty on Lagos water. The Nigerian police spokesperson for Lagos Command, Benjamin Hundeyin, also confirmed the incident in a Vanguard report. 

ALSO READ: Two years on – Tinubu presidency spreads misleading information

Additionally, our researcher found a comprehensive monthly maritime incident report published by Priavo Security in June 2023, which documented the above incidents plus an additional one it noted was unconfirmed as at the time of that publication.

Further checks through the IMO piracy reports in 2024 didn’t yield any result. However, our researcher found a case of piracy in 2025. According to the global maritime body, the incident occurred in Apapa port in Lagos, Nigeria, when duty crew members aboard a berthed tanker observed four unauthorized individuals on the vessel. Upon being noticed, the intruders fled the scene without taking anything. The incident was subsequently reported to the port authorities.

 

THE VERDICT

The claim that there was no single piracy in Nigeria’s waterways in the last three years is FALSE; there were at least three recorded pirate incidents between May 2022 and May 2025.

How to protect yourself from AI voice cloning scams, audio deepfakes – Experts

Abdullahi Muritala
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How to protect yourself from AI voice cloning scams, audio deepfakes – Experts

The terrifying reality of a growing scam where fraudsters now use AI-generated voice clones to impersonate relatives and extort money from unsuspecting victims is rapidly gaining momentum. With just a short audio clip pulled from your social media posts or past phone calls, scammers can mimic your voice convincingly.

In today’s digital world, deepfake technology and voice cloning are rapidly evolving, courtesy of artificial intelligence (AI). With increasing innovation in AI, any misuse could result into manipulation of digital content and thus, leading to fraud or loss of and damage to personal or organisational reputation.

“Deepfake and voice cloning are interconnected yet distinct concepts,” says Mert Çıkan, Product Owner at SESTEK.

“Deepfake technology involves employing advanced AI algorithms to produce media—videos, audios, images, and text—that deceptively appear realistic, despite being fabricated or altered. Voice cloning, on the other hand, is a unique subset within deepfake technology, focusing on audio manipulation. With this technique audio content can be synthesized that sounds like a specific individual,” he says.

In recent years, there have been multiple cases of audio deepfakes and voice cloning incidents in Nigeria and across the world.

For instance, in April 2023, an audio clip surfaced online purportedly featuring Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, referring to the 2023 election as a “religious war” in an alleged conversation with the presiding Bishop of Winners Chapel International, David Oyedepo. Obi denied the authenticity of the “Yes Daddy” audio leak, labeling it as “fake” and “doctored,” and suggested it was an attempt to discredit him prior to Nigeria’s 2023 general election.

READ THIS: How to protect yourself from online scams – Study

Another audio deepfake circulated online, allegedly capturing a conversation between former Nigerian president, Olusegun Obasanjo; Nigerian musician, Charly Boy and former Cross River State governor, Donald Duke. The audio clip suggested that Obasanjo was urging protests against the 2023 election results. However, a fact-check by TheCable concluded that the audio was doctored and did not meet the authenticity threshold when compared with verified samples of Obasanjo’s voice.​

On the global scene, a man in Los Angeles, United States was swindled out of $25,000 after fraudsters used AI to replicate his son’s voice, convincing him of a fabricated emergency. ​

A 2023 Guardian newspaper report revealed that AI scams now explore cloning to defraud consumers, following a 264% increase in attacks. The report quoted the Southern African Fraud Prevention Service (SAFPS) saying that impersonation attacks increased by 264 per cent for the first five months of 2023 compared to 2021. The report also highlighted the increasing use of AI in fraudulent activities, noting that​ “cybercriminals are leveraging Artificial Intelligence (AI) through cloning to defraud unsuspecting consumers.”

The FactCheckHub spoke with at least two leading experts combatting information disorder in Africa – Lee Nwiti, Chief Editor at Africa Check in South Africa and Silas Jonathan, Digital Investigation Manager at the Digital Technology, Artificial Intelligence, and Information Disorder Analysis Centre (DAIDAC) in Nigeria.

“Scammers now use AI to clone voices with chilling accuracy — impersonating friends, family, or colleagues to trick victims into handing over money or sensitive information,” Nwiti warns.

DON’T MISS THIS: Five tools to detect audio deepfakes

But as concerns grow over the misuse of AI in everyday life, Jonathan emphasizes that awareness is the first and most crucial step in protecting oneself from AI-powered voice cloning scams.

“You can’t protect yourself from something you don’t even know exists,” he warns, highlighting the urgent need for public education on the realities of voice cloning technology. “The first thing people need to know is that there is a possibility that their voices can now be cloned,” he added.

Safety Tips:

However, they suggested some ways to protect yourself and your loved ones from falling victim to this new form of scam and audio deepfakes as follow:

1. Know that voice cloning and deepfakes are real

AI voice cloning scams are no longer science fiction. With just a few voice samples often pulled from social media videos, voice notes, or phone calls, scammers can create convincing voice replicas that sound just like someone you know. You can’t guard against what you don’t know exists. Voice cloning is real, so is audio deepfakes – beware!

2. Watch out for emotional manipulation

Fraudsters typically create a sense of urgency — for example, claiming a loved one has been in an accident or kidnapped — and then demand immediate money transfers. Always pause before reacting.

3. Evaluate the audio or voice thoroughly

Before you interpret any kind of alleged audio leak or phone call… it is very important to ask yourself these questions: “Now that I’m aware that voices can be cloned, is this true? Is the alleged person likely to say something like that?” Always question the authenticity of controversial or unexpected audio leaks or strange phone calls.

4. Verify before you act

Don’t trust the voice or audio clip alone. Call the person(s) involved using their regular phone numbers, or contact any close friend or family member nearer to the person(s) to verify the situation. If it doesn’t check out, it’s likely a scam.

ALSO READ: AI voice technology used to create misleading videos on TikTok – Report

Also, you can check online to see if there is some news around the incident from credible media outlets. You may also search online for corroborating evidence or news reports that support or refute the audio.

5. Consult experts

It’s really good to share such audio clip or phony call recording with experts or fact-checking organisations like FactCheckHub, Africa Check, DAIDAC or Dubawa, among others. Fact-checkers have the tools and expertise to analyse such audio and are skilled to provide guidance (or caution) on the authenticity or otherwise of the clip or recording. You may also submit it to The FactCheckHub team via our mobile app to help you verify.

6. Avoid hasty conclusions

Dealing with audio can be very tricky because it’s not visual. Sometimes you have nothing to prove or to show. Be cautious with audio-only evidence; lack of visuals makes it easier to manipulate.

7. Set up family code words

Agree on secret phrases or code words with close family and friends that only you would know. If you ever receive a suspicious voice message or audio clip or phone call, ask for the code word before continuing the conversation.

8. Practice good digital hygiene

Limit the amount of personal voice content you share online. Be mindful of what you post publicly, and avoid oversharing details that could be used to make cloned phone calls or audio clip more convincing.

9. Report scams to appropriate local authorities

Even if you didn’t lose money, report the incident, scam or audio leak to the appropriate local authorities. For Nigerians, report such scams to the Nigeria Police Force-National Cybercrime Centre (NPF-NCCC) via their official X account or the Police HQ cybercrime unit, or the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) through their Computer Emergency Readiness and Response Team (ngCERT) portal.​

These voice-cloning scams and audio deepfakes are sophisticated, but awareness and preparation can help you stay ahead. Talk to your friends and family about these tactics. Set up a plan. And remember: if it feels like a scam or too familiar voice, it probably is phony. Hang up and verify.

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