NIMR warns public over fake LinkedIn account impersonating director-general

The Nigerian Institute of Medical Research (NIMR) has warned members of the public about a fake LinkedIn account impersonating John Oladapo Obafunwa, its director-general, and being used to send fraudulent messages to unsuspecting individuals.

In a statement issued on Monday and signed by Sam Eferaro, the Institute’s media consultant, NIMR said the impersonating account has been offering purported procurement opportunities, contracts and other forms of business engagement in the name of the director-general.

The Institute cautioned the public to disregard and ignore any such messages, stressing that they are fraudulent and did not originate from Obafunwa or from NIMR.

“NIMR wishes to inform the general public of the existence of a fake LinkedIn account impersonating the director-general of the Institute and sending fraudulent messages,” the statement said.

It emphasised that all official engagements with vendors, contractors, partners and members of the public are carried out strictly through recognised and formal institutional channels, in line with established public service procedures.

“At no time does the Institute or its director-general conduct official business, procurement discussions or contractual engagements through unsolicited social media communications,” NIMR said.

The Institute further clarified that Obafunwa maintains only one official LinkedIn account, which bears his full name, adding that any other account, including one operating under the name John Obafunwa, is false and unauthorised.

“Any other LinkedIn or social media account purporting to represent the Director-General is fake, does not emanate from him and is not associated with the Institute,” the statement added.

NIMR advised members of the public to avoid engaging with such accounts and to promptly report any suspicious or impersonating profiles to the relevant social media platforms.

The Institute also disclosed that it is taking appropriate steps to address the misrepresentation and protect the public from potential fraud arising from the impersonation.

NIMR urged Nigerians to remain vigilant and verify the authenticity of any communication claiming to originate from public officials or government institutions before engaging or responding.