The Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese, Most Revd (Dr) Matthew Hassan Kukah, has appealed to Nigerians to be more diligent, check and cross check with him and the Diocese of Sokoto before making any donation to either himself or the diocese.

Kukah stated this following what he termed a renewed and energetic use of his name by criminals to defraud Nigerians.

The former Secretary-General of the Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria, in a statement by the Director of Communications, Catholic Diocese of Sokoto, Revd. Fr. Paschal Salifu, said for over 10 years, his name had been bandied around by criminals soliciting money from prominent Nigerians.

Kukah also said initially, he responded by issuing disclaimers, adding that after some time, there was respite.

He, however, said: “Now, there has been a renewed and energetic use of my name by these same criminals again. I have tried to alert the security agencies, but things have not changed.

“These criminals are targeting very prominent, respected and high net worth persons, such as governors, ministers, eminent statesmen and women and posing as my good self.”

He further said a good number of eminent persons had continued to reach out to him, people whose contacts he did not even have, seeking clarifications about his request for financial assistance.

“Most innocent persons have parted with millions of Naira to criminals who are posing as Bishop Kukah. Often, the requests come with bank accounts opened in my name (often Opay). There is obviously collusion with unscrupulous elements in some of the banks. I am deeply appreciative of the trust and the kindness of millions of Nigerians across the society, who appreciate what we are doing for faith and country. I want to thank all those who have supported and continue to support our work.

“However, I appeal to all Nigerians to please, be more diligent, check and cross check with us before you make any donation to either myself or the Diocese of Sokoto.” (The Sun)