The House of Representatives has launched an investigation into claims that telecom companies have connected National Identification Numbers (NIN) to subscribers’ SIM cards without obtaining their consent.
This inquiry was prompted by a motion put forward by Rep. Patrick Umoh and Professor Julius Ihonvbere during a plenary session on Wednesday. Rep. Umoh voiced his concerns over the dangers of this unauthorized linkage, emphasizing the risks it poses to subscribers, including heightened exposure to criminal activities and potential harm to legitimate NIN holders.
He asserted that such actions breach the Nigeria Data Protection Act of 2023, as well as the Nigeria Data Protection Regulation (NDPR) of 2019, both of which safeguard the privacy and personal data of all Nigerians.
This incorporation of NIN to SIM cards without explicit consent is a stark violation of the Nigeria Data Protection Act and the NDPR, which uphold every Nigerian’s right to privacy and data protection,” Umoh remarked.
It puts citizens at serious risk of identity theft, financial fraud, and various forms of cybercrime.”Rep. Umoh further pointed out that innocent individuals have faced wrongful accusations, resulting in reputational harm, harassment, and legal troubles due to unauthorized data linking.
In response, the House has decided to assign its Committees on Communications and Interior to conduct a comprehensive investigation into the issue and submit their findings within four weeks.Additionally, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has been called upon to probe the telecom companies implicated and take swift action against any that are found responsible for this practice.
Legislators probe telecom firms for unlawful NIN-SIM connections.
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