Some telecommunications companies in Nigeria have allegedly devised a means to link customer’s SIM to their NIN, even when the owner of the number is not aware.
Now, this alleged practice is drawing attention to the telecom providers, amid growing concerns about data privacy violations.
The attention of lawmakers at the House of Representatives has begun drawn to this practice and they are launching an investigation into the matter.
Lawmakers warned that this practice could expose citizens to security risks, including identity theft and financial fraud.
The investigation began on Wednesday.
Representing Ikot Ekpene/Essien Udim/Obot Akara federal constituency, Patrick Umoh and Owan federal constituency, Julius Ihonvbere, who sponsored the motion, raised serious concerns about privacy violations and security risks.
Umoh emphasised that this practice exposed Nigerians to identity theft, financial fraud, and cybercrime.
Furthermore, he pointed out that it was a violation of the Nigeria Data Protection Act 2023 and the Nigeria Data Protection Regulation (NDPR) 2019, which protect citizens’ personal data.
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“The NIN aims to enhance security, not put law-abiding Nigerians at risk,” Umoh argued.
He stressed that unauthorised data linking had already led to wrongful criminal accusations, reputational damage, and legal troubles for innocent individuals.
As a result, the House directed its Committees on Communications and Interior to investigate the matter and report back within four weeks.
At the same time, lawmakers urged the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) to take swift action against any telecom provider found guilty.
Additionally, they called on the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) to confirm whether telecom providers had received authorisation to link NINs and whether they had complied with relevant laws.
With cybercrime and data breaches on the rise, Nigerians now look to lawmakers for urgent action and accountability.
