The House of Representatives has urged the Federal Government to investigate reports of unauthorized linkage of Nigerians’ National Identification Numbers (NIN) to telecom lines without their consent.
This resolution followed an urgent motion of public importance sponsored by House Majority Leader, hon. Professor Julius Ihonvbere, and hon. Patrick Umoh during plenary on Tuesday.
Presenting the motion, hon. Umoh described the unauthorized linkage of NINs as a serious case of data and identity theft, warning that the practice exposes legitimate NIN holders to grave risks, including wrongful criminal implications, reputational damage, harassment, and legal troubles.
He further stated that the act violates the Nigeria Data Protection Act and the Nigeria Data Protection Regulation, both of which guarantee citizens’ rights to privacy and personal data protection.
Following deliberations, the House directed the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) to investigate the claims and take immediate action against any telecom service provider found guilty of the unauthorized linkage.
Additionally, lawmakers mandated the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) to confirm whether telecom operators were authorized to link NINs to phone numbers and ensure compliance with all relevant laws and regulations.
