By Sabiu Abdullahi
Bayero University Kano (BUK) has begun an investigation into claims that one of its students engaged in online impersonation and financial fraud.
The case centres on Ismail Sani after several people publicly said they were deceived and lost money.
In a statement released on Wednesday, the university’s Director of Public Affairs, Lamara Garba, confirmed that the institution is aware of reports circulating on social media that link the student to alleged fraudulent activities.
The university explained that the conduct of any individual does not reflect its values. It also said disciplinary steps will follow if the accusations are proven.
“Any conduct capable of bringing the name and reputation of the university into disrepute is treated seriously,” Lamara Garba said.
The issue attracted wide attention after Nigerian academic based in the United States, Professor Farooq Kperogi, shared his experience online. He said someone posing as “Halima Tahir,” who claimed to be a 300-level microbiology student at BUK, repeatedly obtained money from him.
Kperogi later said he discovered that the identity belonged to Ismail Sani, who studies veterinary medicine at the university.
According to him, the student first contacted him in 2024 and claimed he had just gained admission and needed help with school fees.
“I helped him without asking for verification. He later made more requests, including money for an old woman’s medicine. Then he reappeared as ‘Halima Tahir’ to scam me again,” Kperogi wrote.
He added that several digital records linked the alleged scam to the student. These materials included email addresses, payment receipts and JAMB registration documents. Kperogi said the student denied any wrongdoing when confronted.
“He is clearly a dangerous, well-practiced scammer. Or perhaps mentally unwell. Whatever the case, he does not belong in polite society. He belongs in prison, or somewhere he cannot harm people,” Kperogi said.
Following the revelation, other individuals, including social media influencers, said they had similar encounters. They explained that the person behind the messages often used emotional appeals, religious language and fabricated stories to gain sympathy and financial assistance.
BUK said a preliminary inquiry is already underway. The university added that relevant authorities are examining the matter through its disciplinary procedures.
The institution also commended people such as Kperogi who provide financial support to students. However, it urged the public to avoid speculation and allow the investigation to run its course.