Disclaimer Notice on Acts of Impersonation by Alhaji Haruna Yusuff
The National Association of Nigerian Traders (NANTS) has issued an urgent disclaimer regarding the fraudulent actions of Alhaji Haruna Yusuff, who has been falsely presenting himself as the Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Association. This comes in the wake of several complaints and reports concerning his attempt to mislead the public and political office holders, particularly in Oyo State, where he allegedly duped traders under the guise of the Federal Government’s Economic Empowerment Programme (GEEP), managed by the Bank of Industry.
Alhaji Haruna Yusuff was initially appointed a member of the National Traders Mobilization Committee (NTMC) of NANTS on August 25, 2016, with the appointment officially acknowledged on August 26, 2016. However, a suspension letter dated February 13, 2017, placed a halt on his mobilization assignments. This directive followed a meeting held on February 7, 2017, at the NANTS National Secretariat in Abuja, where the committee was indicted for failing to convene a general meeting of all members since November 2016.
Reports indicate that despite his suspension, Yusuff proceeded with inaugurations in Abia and Oyo states, defying explicit instructions from the National President. Moreover, he engaged in unauthorized correspondence, the illegal production of materials, and even the signing and printing of certificates, all without the knowledge or consent of the NANTS National Secretariat. These actions have raised serious concerns as they suggest the operation of a parallel body within the organization.
A key point of contention is Yusuff’s continued misrepresentation of himself as the Chairman of the Board of Trustees of NANTS, a position that, according to the Association’s Memorandum and Articles of Association, does not legally exist. NANTS, a registered company limited by guarantee, does not recognize such an office, and any claims to that effect are fraudulent.
In 2017, Alhaji Yusuff allegedly used a photocopy of the Association’s certificate to deceive several individuals, including political figures in Oyo State. In response, the NANTS National Headquarters took swift action, notifying various authorities and security agencies, which led to the subsequent investigation and invitation of certain individuals by the police and the Department of State Services (DSS).
Further validating the claims of impersonation, a petition filed by the Oyo State Chapter of NANTS against Yusuff and others was forwarded to the Director of DSS, Oyo State Command, on June 14, 2017. The National President of NANTS, Ken Ukaoha Esq., has since reaffirmed the Association’s stance that Yusuff is no longer associated with NANTS since his suspension in 2017.
In a related legal development, Barrister Nwaibu Legbosi Nuka, Head of Legal, Trade Policy, and Advocacy at NANTS, signed a disclaimer on May 17, 2017, addressing acts of fraud and extortion related to Yusuff’s actions.
NANTS has urged the public to disregard any claims made by Alhaji Haruna Yusuff and to be cautious of any further fraudulent activities carried out under his name. The Association has reaffirmed its commitment to upholding the integrity of its operations and protecting the interests of its members.
Mrs. Odunayo Kayode Danjuma, Southwest Coordinator and Acting National Woman Leader of NANTS, has also called on traders and the general public to remain vigilant against such acts of deception.
