UNICEF issued a disclaimer after Blessing’s ex-husband said his charity organisation partnered with them to raise funds for the people of Ukraine
By Kehinde Okeowo
The United Nations Children’s Fund in Nigeria might have inadvertently backed the claim made by Nollywood actress Nkechi Blessing, that her ex-husband, Opeyemi Falegan used her platform for selfish reasons.
The actress, while giving reasons why their relationship ended, alleged that one of the reasons she left the politician was because he constantly begs for financial assistance to fund his foundation.
UNICEF on Friday issued a scam alert and distanced itself from Falegan, after he took to his Instagram page to solicit funds for the people of Ukraine through his charity organisation, ODF Foundation, in partnership with UNICEF.
“This donation goes directly to UNICEF, don’t forget about our @odf_foundation…” the politician wrote.
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However, UNICEF through its official Instagram page, issued a disclaimer moments after the post was published, distancing itself from his claim.
“UNICEF Nigeria is aware of a fictitious donation drive to raise funds for UNICEF.
“Please be aware that all legitimate campaigns for donations are hosted on the UNICEF website www.unicef.org and verified social media pages. Do not fall victim to this scam!” the disclaimer read.
Falegan, who ignored the scam alert, later wrote on his Instagram page that the donation has ended and that he was able to raise about £60, which will be donated for relief efforts in Ukraine through the UN body.
“We were able to raise 61 pounds for the people of Ukraine through @unicef, this is for the people of Ukraine who passed through a lot of dysfunctional/ disheartening situations in recent times.
“The donation has ended today and we want to thank our donators/supporters [sic] for this nice gesture and also service to humanity. God bless u @unicef for being a platform to be used, and kindly don’t forget about ODF foundation @odf_foundation also needs your support as well,” he wrote.
