Africa
Scam alert: ATBUTH bauchi exposes shocking #200m laptop contract scam

The Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Teaching Hospital (ATBUTH), Bauchi, has distanced itself from a fraudulent procurement contract.
The hospital’s Head of Public Relations, Usman Koli, issued a statement on Friday, alerting Nigerians about the fraudulent activities.
He revealed that fraudsters are impersonating the Chief Medical Director (CMD), Professor Yusuf Bara Jibrin, both online and offline.
According to him, these criminals falsely claim that the CMD is awarding contracts for 200 HP laptops.
They allege the Federal Ministry of Health approved the laptops for the hospital’s digitisation program.
Koli disclosed that the scammers operate using the phone number ‘08167069701’ to reach unsuspecting victims.
He said they use WhatsApp, phone calls, and SMS to deceive people into falling for their tricks.
The hospital insisted it has not initiated any procurement through unofficial means or personal contacts.
“All legitimate procurement activities follow due process and legal procedures,” Koli stated firmly.
He added that neither the CMD nor any official awards contracts outside official channels.
The hospital advised the public to ignore any suspicious messages from fraudsters.
“Anyone contacted with such fraudulent claims should report to the authorities immediately,” the statement urged.
Koli reassured the public that ATBUTH is working with security agencies to track and arrest the culprits.
He warned that legal action would be taken against anyone found impersonating the hospital’s leadership.
The statement emphasized the importance of verifying contract offers through official hospital communication channels.
ATBUTH urged Nigerians to remain cautious and avoid falling victim to cyber fraudsters.
The management reiterated its commitment to transparency in all procurement processes.
Security agencies have also been notified and are actively investigating the fraudulent scheme.
Authorities have urged citizens to share this information to prevent further scams.
This is not the first time criminals have attempted to exploit government institutions for fraud.
Experts warn that impersonation scams are on the rise and require public vigilance.
ATBUTH advised businesses and individuals to always confirm procurement contracts before engaging.
The hospital reassured the public that all legitimate contracts are advertised through official channels.
Nigerians are encouraged to report suspicious activities to law enforcement without hesitation.
Authorities have vowed to prosecute anyone involved in fraudulent procurement claims.
This warning comes amid growing concerns over cybercrime in the country.
The hospital urged Nigerians to remain alert and avoid transactions with unknown persons.
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