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Ex-NSPMC director raises alarm over online smear campaign

By John Alechenu

ABUJA — A former Director of Corporate Services at the Nigerian Security Printing and Minting Company (NSPMC), Adesoji Ogungbesan, has raised concerns over what he described as a deliberate campaign to damage his reputation following his resignation.

Ogungbesan, who left the organisation earlier this year, said in an interview on Wednesday that unknown individuals dissatisfied with his departure have used social media to spread false information about him.

He explained that he joined NSPMC from the private sector in February 2024, after being approached by a former colleague, to help improve operational performance. “The task was presented as simple: the operation had been poorly run for a long time — come in, turn it around,” he said, noting that the pay was less than half of what he earned previously.

Ogungbesan said his qualifications and performance were questioned by an online publication, Leading Reporters, which claimed he was unqualified for the role. “My LinkedIn profile is public; my experience compares favourably with past and present management at NSPMC, and the impact of my initiatives during my tenure is verifiable,” he stated.

During his time at NSPMC, Ogungbesan was first appointed General Manager, Management Services, and later Acting Executive Director, Corporate Services. He conducted a one-month diagnostic review and collaborated with PwC on a board-driven organisational assessment. His efforts focused on establishing systems to track operational performance, implement best practices, and improve efficiency.

He also addressed false claims circulating online about a pest control contract at the Lagos facility. “It was reported that I initiated a contract worth ₦89 million. The actual sum was ₦11.5 million for pest control services across two office buildings and the factory,” Ogungbesan clarified.

“The online falsehoods are permanent and may surface whenever my professional record is checked,” he added, noting that he has engaged legal counsel to explore avenues for redress.

Ogungbesan emphasized that his experience in the private sector taught him the importance of reputation, which he said is especially vulnerable in public service.