Suspended Senator representing Kogi West, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, has raised serious concerns over the illegal cloning of her official phone number, which she says is now being used to impersonate her and harass influential individuals across Nigeria.
In a formal petition dated June 4, submitted through her legal representatives at M. J. Numa and Partners to the Director of the National Cybercrime Centre, Nigeria Police Force Headquarters in Abuja, the Senator accused unknown persons of using her cloned number to send deceptive messages and make fraudulent calls in her name.
Titled “Disclaimer Regarding Illegal Cloning and Unauthorised Use of Our Client’s Phone Number,” the petition described the act as part of a larger coordinated cyberattack aimed at damaging her reputation, misleading high-profile Nigerians, and manipulating public opinion.
“This development is deeply troubling. It violates our client’s privacy and raises serious national security concerns,” stated her counsel, Barrister Michael Jonathan Numa, in the letter.
High-Profile Figures Targeted
The fraudulent activities reportedly include unauthorized communication with several prominent Nigerians. Among those impersonated or contacted by the perpetrators using the Senator’s cloned number are:
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Senator Ben Obi, a former presidential adviser
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Chief John Odigie-Oyegun, former Edo State Governor and ex-National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC)
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Chief Allen Onyema, CEO of Air Peace
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Hon. Emmanuel Ukon, a public official
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Seun Okinbaloye, a journalist with Channels Television
In another bizarre incident, the Area Commander of Maitama District allegedly called Akpoti-Uduaghan, claiming to be returning her call one she insists she never made. Similarly, Chief Ifedayo Adams Adedipe (SAN) also reported receiving a suspicious call that appeared to originate from her line.
Public Warning and Call for Investigation
Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan has since issued a disclaimer, distancing herself from all communications not personally or officially verified. She has urged members of the public, especially those receiving calls or messages from her number, to treat such interactions with extreme caution.
To assist investigations, the Senator has offered to submit her mobile devices for forensic examination. She also called on the Nigeria Police Force and other relevant security agencies to launch a thorough investigation to uncover the perpetrators and bring them to justice.
“This is not just an attack on me personally it’s a direct threat to our digital safety and the integrity of public communication. I will cooperate fully to ensure the culprits are held accountable,” Akpoti-Uduaghan emphasized.
This incident underscores growing concerns around cybersecurity threats and identity fraud in Nigeria, especially as digital communication tools become deeply integrated into governance and public life.
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