The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) has alerted the public to a circulating fraudulent document being used to deceive individuals under the pretense of government contracts.
The Service revealed that scammers have been distributing a form titled “Payment/Mobilisation Request Form”, soliciting payments from victims by falsely claiming it is linked to contract awards.
In a statement released on Saturday, signed by Chief Superintendent of Corrections and Service Public Relations Officer, J.N. Osuji, the NCoS clarified that the document did not originate from the Service.
The agency emphasized that it strictly follows Federal Government regulations and established procedures in procurement.
The statement read, “The Service unequivocally states that this document did not originate from the NCoS. We operate strictly in accordance with extant Federal Government regulations and established due process in all procurement and contract-related matters.
At no time does the Service request, demand, or accept upfront payments, mobilisation fees, or any form of financial inducement from individuals or contractors.”
The NCoS also noted that fraudsters have impersonated senior officials on social media, issuing fake contract offers and instructing victims to deposit funds into private accounts. The Service described these activities as deliberate attempts to exploit unsuspecting citizens.
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To protect the public, the NCoS advised Nigerians to verify all contract information and disregard unsolicited offers from unofficial sources, warning against making any payments for supposed government contracts or approvals.
The statement stressed the importance of reporting suspected fraud to law enforcement agencies, including the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Nigeria Police Force.
“Anyone who encounters such fraudulent schemes or has been affected is urged to report immediately to the relevant law enforcement agencies.
The Service is actively collaborating with relevant authorities to investigate these fraudulent activities and ensure that perpetrators are apprehended and brought to justice,” it added.
The notice concluded by reaffirming the Service’s commitment to public safety and transparency, urging citizens to remain vigilant and aware in order to protect themselves against scams.