The National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) has issued a stern warning to Nigerians against selling or disclosing their National Identification Numbers (NIN) to unauthorized individuals or organizations for monetary gain.
This warning comes after reports emerged from Anambra State, where some residents were reportedly being enticed to submit their NINs in exchange for money. The NIMC condemned the practice, describing it as illegal and in violation of the NIMC Act No. 23 of 2007, the Data Protection Act, and the Cybercrime Act.
In a statement released on Wednesday, Dr. Kayode Adegoke, the Head of Corporate Communications at NIMC, confirmed that the Commission had received information regarding these illegal activities and that steps were being taken to address the situation. He revealed that, in collaboration with the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Nigeria Police Force, arrests had already been made. The suspects are currently under interrogation and will be prosecuted in accordance with the law.
“The National Identity Management Commission has been notified of the activities of unauthorized individuals or organizations purportedly asking for the submission of the National Identification Number of Anambra residents in exchange for money. Upon receiving the information, NIMC, in conjunction with the DSS and the Nigeria Police Force, swiftly arrested the culprits behind the illegal collection of the NIN. They are currently being interrogated and will face the full wrath of the law,” the statement read.
NIMC further emphasized that neither it nor the Federal Government had authorized third parties to collect or use NINs for financial compensation. The Commission warned that any individual or group caught engaging in such illegal activities would face severe penalties.
“Under no circumstances 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,” the Commission cautioned.
The NIMC urged all Nigerians to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities involving NIN collection to the relevant authorities to help protect the integrity of the national identity system.
