The Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese Matthew Kukah has raised concern over fraudsters using his name to solicit funds from Nigerians.
In a statement issued by the Director of Communications, Catholic Diocese of Sokoto, Rev. Fr. Pascal Salifu, Rev. Kukah said criminals had continued to use his identity to seek money from prominent Nigerians.
He said the development marked a renewed use of his name by individuals who had operated in a similar manner for more than 10 years.
“For over ten years now, my name has been bandied around by criminals soliciting for money from prominent Nigerians,” Kukah said.
“Initially, I responded by issuing disclaimers. After some time, we had some respite. Now, there has been a renewed and energetic use of my name by these same criminals again. I have tried to alert the security agencies, but things have not changed.”
Kukah said the fraudsters target governors, ministers and other public office holders, posing as him to request financial assistance.
He added that several individuals had contacted him to verify requests for donations, including people whose contact details he did not have.
He disclosed that some individuals had lost money to the fraudsters, who often provide bank accounts opened in his name through financial platforms such as OPay to receive payments.
He said there could be collusion with elements within some banks.
Kukah expressed appreciation to Nigerians who support his work and urged the public to exercise caution.
“I appeal to all Nigerians to please be more diligent, check and cross-check with us before you make any donation to either myself or the Diocese of Sokoto,” he said.
The Diocese of Sokoto also urged the public to disregard any messages or requests for funds purportedly from Kukah and to verify such communications through official church channels.
