QNET, a globally recognised lifestyle and wellness direct-selling company, has refuted allegations linking it to fraudulent activities following a recent operation by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) Kaduna Zonal Directorate in Minna, Niger State.
The EFCC arrested 28 individuals allegedly involved in Ponzi schemes, claiming they operated from a three-bedroom apartment in Al-Bishiri Estate and were linked to QNET.
In a public statement released on Wednesday, QNET stated: “We categorically deny any association with these individuals or their illicit activities.”
The statement further asserted that while the EFCC reported recovering QNET application forms and documents during the operation, that those materials are likely forged or fraudulent, as QNET’s business operates exclusively on an e-commerce platform and does not utilize physical application forms.
“These items were clearly misused by unauthorized parties exploiting our brand. QNET operates a legitimate and ethical direct-selling business model, empowering independent representatives to promote high-quality wellness and lifestyle products.
“As a global leader in the direct-selling industry since 1998, QNET adheres strictly to local and international regulations, maintaining the highest standards of compliance and integrity”.
Regional General Manager for Sub-Saharan Africa, Mr. Biram Fall, further addressed the allegations, stating: “We are deeply concerned by the rising trend of scams falsely linked to QNET, including fake investment schemes and fraudulent job offers. These malicious acts not only damage our reputation but also harm unsuspecting individuals by eroding their trust and finances. QNET condemns all fraudulent activities and is fully committed to working with authorities to ensure justice is served. We urge the public to remain vigilant and verify all QNET-related opportunities through official channels to avoid falling victim to such deceptive practices.”
Reiterating QNET’s ongoing commitment to anti-fraud advocacy, Fall said that since entering Nigeria in 2022 through the local partner Transblue Nigeria Limited, QNET has prioritized financial literacy and consumer protection.
“In November 2023, we launched the Say NO! campaign to educate the public about scams and Ponzi schemes, collaborating with key stakeholders such as the Lagos State Consumer Protection Agency (LASCOPA) and the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment.”
He also pointed to the firms dedication to community empowerment to add legitimacy to its business, noting the opening of the QNET Product Expo in Lagos, Nigeria in November, 2024
“This initiative has reached thousands across Nigeria and neighboring countries like Senegal and Burkina Faso through multilingual billboards, radio campaigns, educational pamphlets, and social media outreach. These efforts underscore our dedication to empowering communities with the knowledge to distinguish legitimate QNET services from fraudulent schemes.
Fall assured of QNET’s full cooperation with law enforcement.
“QNET is committed to supporting the EFCC’s investigation into this matter. We are actively cooperating with authorities to clarify the misuse of our brand and ensure that those responsible for these fraudulent activities are brought to justice. We encourage anyone with information about this case to come forward and assist in the investigation”.
“QNET remains steadfast in upholding the highest ethical standards in direct selling. We call on the media and the public to verify facts before associating QNET with unverified claims, as such misinformation can unfairly damage our reputation and the trust of our stakeholders”, the company said.
