The North East Development Commission, NEDC, has issued a stern warning to members of the public and corporate organisations over the unauthorised use of its name, logo and official identity by unscrupulous individuals and groups across various digital and print platforms.
In a public disclaimer signed and released by the Commission’s management and made available to journalists in Maiduguri, the Borno State capital, the NEDC expressed concern over the activities of entities falsely claiming affiliation with the agency.
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The Commission described the development as a deliberate attempt to deceive unsuspecting members of the public.
It stated that the use of its branding, insignia or institutional identity without prior written authorisation was strictly prohibited, emphasising that any website, social media account or publication using its official marks without approval was fraudulent and unauthorised.
The NEDC warned that such impersonation and misuse of its institutional identity constituted serious violations of Nigerian law and that offenders would face severe legal consequences.
The Commission specifically cited the following legal frameworks:
“Nigeria Data Protection Act (NDPA), 2023 – for the unlawful processing, misuse or misleading representation involving institutional identity, which may attract regulatory sanctions. Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act, 2015 – relating to identity theft, impersonation and electronic fraud. Trade Marks Act, Cap T13, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria (LFN), 2004,” the NEDC said.
It says the laws prohibits the unauthorised use of registered trademarks, including logos and insignia.
The statement also highlighted the potential consequences for individuals or organisations found engaging in such illicit activities, including operating fake online platforms.
It therefore urged members of the public to exercise caution and verify all information relating to the Commission through its official communication channels.
“Members of the public are advised to refrain from engaging with unauthorised platforms or individuals claiming affiliation with the Commission and to report suspicious accounts or activities to the appropriate authorities or the Commission,” the statement said.
The management further clarified that it would not accept responsibility for any transactions, representations, losses or engagements conducted by unauthorised persons or entities using the Commission’s name, logo or identity.
