The WhatsApp number of Umo Eno, Governor of Akwa Ibom state in southern Nigeria, has been hacked by suspected fraudsters. The hackers sent messages to the governor’s contacts requesting money and promising reimbursement later. The governor’s office confirmed the incident, stating that the number was “cloned” by criminals attempting to defraud individuals.
This is the second instance of a governor’s phone number being compromised in similar circumstances, following a similar incident involving Ademola Adeleke, Governor of Osun state, last month. Cybersecurity expert Bilal Abdullahi advised governors to enhance their phone and WhatsApp security to prevent such incidents.
Despite efforts to combat cybercrime, including a massive clampdown by the financial crimes agency EFCC, “Yahoo-Yahoo” remains a significant problem in Nigeria. The government has invested millions in a state-of-the-art cybercrime center to demonstrate its commitment to addressing the issue.
The incident highlights the need for increased vigilance and security measures to protect individuals, especially public figures, from cyber threats. The public has been warned to disregard any messages soliciting funds from the governor’s number, as they do not emanate from him. Law enforcement agencies have been notified, and an investigation is underway.
