The House of Representatives on Wednesday launched an investigation into allegations of telcom providers linking National Identification Numbers (NIN) to subscribers’ lines without their consent.
This decision is sequel to a motion sponsored by Patrick Umoh, member representing Ikot Ekpene/Essien Udim/Obot Akara federal constituency and Julius Ihonvbere, representing Owan federal Constituency during plenary on Wednesday.
Umoh, leading the debate expressed concerns that this action exposes subscribers to criminal activities and subjects legitimate NIN holders to grave risk.
He argued that the action is a clear violation of the Nigeria Data Protection Act, 2023 and the Nigeria Data Protection Regulation (NDPR) 2019, which guarantee the right to privacy and protection of personal data of every Nigerian;
“Aware that the National Identification Number (NIN) was established to streamline the verification and identification of persons and enhance security in Nigeria.
“Also aware that the potential risks and consequences of this unauthorized data linking includes identity theft, financial fraud, and other forms of cybercrime that have become rife in Nigeria lately”, he said.
The Lawmaker stressed that innocent citizens have been wrongly implicated in crimes, suffer reputational damage, harassment and legal challenges for crimes they know nothing about.
The House therefore mandated its Committees on Communications and Interior to conduct a thorough investigation into the matter and report back to the House for further legislative business within four weeks.
The lower chamber also urged the Nigerian Communications Commission to investigate and take immediate actions against any telecom service provider found to be culpable in this practice.
The House further asked the National Identity Management Commission to confirm whether the linking of NIN numbers by telecom service providers was authorized and in compliance with relevant laws and regulations.
