The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission, ICPC, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, and the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission, FCCPC, have warned celebrities and influencers against promoting fraudulent products and services.
The agencies gave the warning during a joint stakeholder meeting held in Abuja on Friday, where they addressed the rising trend of celebrities endorsing Ponzi schemes, fake investment platforms, and unregistered products.
According to them, many Nigerians have lost billions of naira after investing in products advertised by popular faces on social media.
Speaking, FCCPC Executive Vice Chairman, Tunji Bello, said celebrities can no longer claim ignorance when products they endorse defraud Nigerians.
“If you promote a fraudulent product, you are liable. Your face, your voice, your influence was used to deceive people. You will be held accountable,” he said.
EFCC Chairman, Ola Olukoyede, represented at the event, warned that influencers who promote fraud will be treated as accomplices.
“We have seen cases where skit makers, musicians and actors promoted crypto scams and fake loan apps. Nigerians lost money because they trusted their favourite celebrity. That trust must not be abused,” he said.
The ICPC also warned that celebrity endorsements of fake products undermine consumer confidence and fuel corruption.
The agencies advised celebrities to always verify products with regulatory bodies like NAFDAC, SEC, and FCCPC before signing endorsement deals.
They also urged Nigerians to report suspicious products and celebrity adverts that look too good to be true.
The warning comes after several celebrities were called out for promoting failed investment schemes and unhealthy skincare products that left many Nigerians in debt and with health complications.
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