I find it absolutely necessary to raise alarm over the on going attempt by fraudsters to drop my name to scam unsuspecting persons, most especially in my home state Delta, with promises of Federal appointments and contracts.
These unsavoury and distasteful efforts started right from when I was appointed Senior Special Assistant(Media) to the then Vice President, and later, Special Adviser, Media and Publicity, to President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan.
I had occasion in the past to report these incidents to the highest police authorities, but they continued unabated. Privately I had assumed that they will wither away once I left public office. But to my utter dismay, they have continued unabated; even gained strength.
I am alarmed that I who do not presently hold any public office can be in a position to influence the appointments of ministers, directors general and other key officials of government as these tricksters claim.
For the avoidance of doubt, I have not authorized, directed, sought or asked anyone to submit their CVs or any other particulars for appointments. That the President is my former boss, with whom I maintain excellent relations always, does not place me in a position to influence his decisions on appointments and political and career placements. Anyone close to the President knows that he is generally unswayed by influence peddling in matters of this nature.
May I add that I have never been in the business of name dropping or favor seeking. Even in public office, I was always circumspect about offering opinions on political appointments except when it concerned the public good, or the presidential media strategy.
This has not changed. And it is unlikely to. Anyone caught using my name for dubious purposes or for pecuniary benefits will be made to face the full wrath of the law. This statement has become necessary to clear the air and raise a red flag to these unscrupulous elements who have been dropping my name here and there to feather their own nests.
Ima Niboro
Abuja
Oct 12, 2012.
