Lawmakers probe unauthorized NIN-SIM linking
By Uzair Adam
The Nigerian House of Representatives has initiated an inquiry following allegations that some telecom operators have been linking National Identification Numbers (NIN) to SIM cards without obtaining subscribers’ consent.
During Wednesday’s plenary session, Rep. Patrick Umoh, alongside Professor Julius Ihonvbere, introduced a motion that has set this investigation in motion.
Rep. Umoh voiced deep concerns over the potential risks posed by such unauthorized data integration, emphasizing that it could expose citizens to identity theft, financial fraud, and other cybercrimes.
He further noted that this practice undermines the protections afforded under the Nigeria Data Protection Act, 2023, and the Nigeria Data Protection Regulation (NDPR) 2019.
“This unauthorized linking violates the fundamental rights to privacy and data protection guaranteed to every Nigerian,” said Rep. Umoh.
He warned that citizens could suffer reputational damage, unwarranted legal entanglements, and harassment as a result of being mistakenly implicated in criminal activities.
In response, the House has directed its Committees on Communications and Interior to conduct a comprehensive investigation into the matter, with findings expected within four weeks.
Additionally, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has been called upon to scrutinize the practices of the telecom providers involved and to take swift action against any violations discovered.
The probe could show the government’s commitment to enforcing data protection laws and safeguarding the privacy of Nigerian citizens in the digital age.