Kano, Nigeria – Bayero University Kano has launched an investigation into one of its students, Ismail Sani, over allegations of online impersonation and financial fraud involving several victims.
Okay News reports that the university confirmed it is reviewing reports circulating on social media that link the student to fraudulent activities. In a statement issued by the institution’s Director of Public Affairs, Lamara Garba, the university said it does not condone any behaviour capable of damaging its reputation and promised disciplinary action if the allegations are proven.
The controversy gained attention after US-based Nigerian academic Farooq Kperogi revealed he had been repeatedly scammed by someone posing online as “Halima Tahir,” who claimed to be a 300-level microbiology student at the university. Kperogi said he later discovered that the person behind the identity was allegedly Sani, a veterinary medicine student who initially approached him in 2024 requesting financial support for school fees.
According to the professor, the suspect continued making additional requests for money using emotional appeals and fabricated stories. He added that digital evidence such as email records, payment receipts and registration details allegedly linked the identity used in the scam to the student.
BUK said a preliminary inquiry has begun and relevant authorities are reviewing the case under the university’s disciplinary procedures while urging the public to avoid speculation as the investigation continues.
