COVID-19: Nigerians Solicit Financial Assistance On Social Media
Since the Coronavirus lockdown began in the country, celebrities and clerics alike have used the opportunity to announce free giveaways to their fans and congregations, using social media platforms.
THE WHISTLER observed that some Nigerians who claimed to be desperately in need, have flooded social media with bank account numbers.
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A popular gospel artist,Tim Godfrey had announced that he would be given 20,000 naira each to ten lucky winners on his Instagram page, provided they do a minute video on his latest single ‘Miracles Everywhere’ , among other things.
The cleric, Apostle Johnson Suleiman, had over the past week, also announced free giveaways on Twitter, and some of them replied with evidence that their accounts were credited.
The renowned entertainer, Peter Psquare also stated on Instagram, that he was ready to part with 1 Million naira to lucky fans, on Saturday, provided they fulfil the guidelines of his raffle draw.
The Nollywood actor, Yul Edochie, also displayed the video of one Diamond Ikechukwu who called for financial assistance; and stated that he had credited her account.
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Most of those who responded explained that they needed the money to get what to eat as well as take care of their loved ones.
THE WHISTLER also observed the same trend on radio and television where people claiming to be indigents sent their account and contact details in the hope of getting some financial assistance.
Recall that the federal government had ordered the disbursement of palliatives to vulnerable Nigerians.
The private sector in the country has also supported the federal and state governments with cash and material donations to cushion the effect of the Coronavirus pandemic.
But civil society groups, among others, had expressed doubts about the transparency of the distribution, and advised the federal government to ensure the process was free from corruption.
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