from EMEKA OKONKWO in Abuja, Nigeria
Nigeria Bureau
ABUJA, (CAJ News) – AS authorities commence a crackdown on perpetrators, Nigerians have been warned against sharing their national identity numbers (NIN).
The National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) has issued the warning following the arrest of an unspecified number of individuals allegedly behind the crime in Anambra state, in the southeast of the country.
This is seen as a setback in Nigeria’s digital identification (ID) rollout.
NIMC reports that culprits are collecting the identity numbers from unsuspecting members of the public in exchange for money.
They have been arrested in collaboration with the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Nigeria Police Force (NPF).
“They are currently being interrogated and would be made to face the full wrath of the law,” said Kayode Adegoke, NIMC Head of Corporate Communications.
He reminded that the activity violated the NIMC Act, the Data Protection Act 2023 and the Cybercrime Act 2023.
“At no time should NIN holders give out their NINs for monetary compensation. This is against the laws of the Federation. Anyone caught will be dealt with appropriately,” Adegoke added.
NIMC had earlier issued a statement warning Nigerians against sharing their NIN or data with anyone or any fictitious sites.
Adegoke concluded, “NIMC wishes to thank all security agencies for their support towards the credibility and success of the NIN enrolment project.”
NIMC reports that as of February, 117, 3 million Nigerians have enrolled for the digital NIN with a set target of 200 million by the end of 2025.
– CAJ News