Reps Probe Telecoms’ Unsolicited, Illegal Linking Of Subscribers’ NIN To Lines

The House of Representatives yesterday resolved to investigate the unsolicited and illegal linking of National Identification Numbers (NIN) to subscribers’ lines

by telecom service providers.

Consequently, the House urged the Nigerian Communications Commission to investigate these reports about the trend and take immediate action against any telecom service provider found to be culpable in the practice.

It also asked the National Identity Management Commission to confirm whether the linking of NIN numbers by telecom service providers was authorised and whether it complies with relevant laws and regulations.

These resolutions followed the adoption of a motion of urgent national importance, which was moved by Hon.

Patrick Umoh (APC, Akwa Ibom) and Hon. Julius Ihonvbere (APC, Edo) at plenary.

Moving the motion, Umoh expressed concern over the recent reports of telecom service providers linking NIN to subscribers’ lines without their consent, exposing them to criminal activities and subjecting legitimate NIN holders to grave risk.

He said the action violates the Nigeria Data Protection Act, 2023 and the Nigeria Data Protection Regulation (NDPR) 2019, which guarantees every Nigerian’s privacy and protection of personal data.

“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 unauthorised data linking include identity theft, financial fraud, and other forms of cybercrime that have become rife in Nigeria lately.

“Further be aware that innocent citizens have been wrongly implicated in crimes, suffer reputational damage, harassment and legal challenges for crimes they know nothing about,” the lawmaker noted.

Adopting the motion, the House mandated its Committees on Communications and Interior to thoroughly investigate the matter and report back within four weeks for further legislative action.