Nigeria: Public Disclaimer and Warning Notice!!!

The North East Development Commission (NEDC) hereby draws the attention of the public, corporate organizations, and online platform users to the unauthorized use of the NEDC name, logo, insignia, and official identity on social media platforms, websites, and other digital or print media by certain individuals and entities.

It has come to our notice that some people are falsely representing affiliation with the NEDC, creating misleading impressions, and in some cases engaging in activities capable of deceiving the public.

The NEDC wishes to state unequivocally that the use of the NEDC logo, branding, or identity without prior written authorization is prohibited.

Any social media account, website, or publication using the NEDC logo or name without approval is fraudulent and unauthorized. Such actions constitute serious violations of Nigerian laws, including but not limited to:

-Nigeria Data Protection Act, 2023 (NDPA) - unlawful processing, misuse, or misleading representation involving institutional identity may attract regulatory sanctions.

-Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act, 2015 - particularly provisions relating to identity theft, impersonation, and electronic fraud.

-Trade Marks Act, Cap T13 LFN 2004 - prohibits unauthorized use of registered marks, including logos and insignia.

Any individual or organization found to be using the NEDC logo or name without authorization; Misrepresenting affiliation with the Commission; Operating fake or misleading online platforms in the name of NEDC shall be subject to immediate legal action, which may include:

* Civil litigation for damages;

* Criminal prosecution;

* Regulatory sanctions and penalties under applicable laws;

* Takedown and enforcement actions across digital platforms.

Members of the public are advised to verify all NEDC-related information through official communication channels only; Refrain from engaging with unauthorized platforms or individuals claiming affiliation with the Commission; Report suspicious accounts or activities to the appropriate authorities or the Commission.

The NEDC denies any responsibility for transactions, representations, losses suffered or engagements carried out by unauthorized persons or entities using its name, logo, or identity.

Read the original article on Vanguard.