The truth behind the viral ₦20,000 empowerment offer revealed

The Ogun State Government has warned residents not to believe a message circulating on social media claiming that Governor Dapo Abiodun is giving out ₦20,000 through a Youth Empowerment Cash Transfer programme.

In a statement released by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Information and Strategy, Kayode Akinmade, the government described the message as fake and misleading. It said neither the state government nor the governor’s office is involved in any such programme.

According to the statement, fraudsters are using Governor Abiodun’s name and image to trick people into providing personal and financial information.

The government stressed that there is currently no ₦20,000 Youth Empowerment Cash Transfer programme in Ogun State and advised residents to ignore the message and any registration links attached to it.

Residents were also warned not to click on the link or submit personal details such as bank account information, as doing so could expose them to fraud, identity theft and other cybercrimes.

The state government urged members of the public to verify any information about government programmes through official channels before taking action.

It reiterated that all genuine government empowerment and social intervention programmes are always announced through verified government platforms and credible media outlets.

The government further disclosed that security agencies have been informed and are investigating those behind the fake message. It added that anyone found responsible would be prosecuted according to the law.

Residents were also advised not to share or forward the fraudulent message, as doing so could help scammers reach more victims.

The Ogun State Government assured citizens that it remains committed to providing accurate information about its programmes and policies while protecting residents from misinformation and online scams.