Ignore Fake Social Media Messages, Customs Warns Nigerians

Agents risk N5m fine, imprisonment for violations under new Customs law 

 

The Nigeria Customs Service has warned Nigerians to disregard a wave of false information circulating on social media, stressing that the claims did not originate from the agency and should not be trusted.

In a statement issued on Monday via its official X platform, the Service made it clear that the messages in question are fake and urged the public to rely only on its verified communication channels for accurate updates.

“Members of the public are advised to disregard this fake message and rely on updates published through our verified platforms,” the statement said.

The agency emphasised that its official platforms remain the most reliable source of information on its activities, policies and announcements, noting that misinformation can easily mislead the public when shared without verification.

It also cautioned that the spread of unverified content contributes to confusion, fuels unnecessary panic and undermines public trust in institutions, urging Nigerians to confirm the authenticity of any information before passing it on.

The warning comes amid a growing trend of fake messages, particularly those relating to customs procedures, taxes and penalties, which have been widely circulated online in recent times.

The Service reiterated that it would continue to issue clarifications whenever misleading claims emerge, as concerns mount over the increasing spread of misinformation on social media and its impact on public awareness.