Security operatives have arrested several individuals in Anambra State for unlawfully collecting National Identification Numbers (NINs) from unsuspecting residents in exchange for money, the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) announced on Wednesday.
The arrest, carried out in a joint operation involving the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigeria Police Force (NPF), and NIMC officials, follows reports that unauthorised persons and organisations had been soliciting NINs from residents—a clear violation of the NIMC Act No. 23 of 2007, the Data Protection Act, and the Cybercrime Act.
The suspects are currently being interrogated and will face legal action, according to NIMC’s spokesperson, Dr. Kayode Adegoke.
“The Commission, in conjunction with security agencies, swiftly arrested the culprits behind the illegal collection of NIN. They are currently being interrogated and would be made to face the full wrath of the law,” Adegoke stated.
NIMC reiterated that neither the Commission nor the Federal Government has authorised the collection of NINs by any private individual or organisation, warning that anyone caught participating in such activities will be sanctioned.
The Commission also cautioned Nigerians, especially residents of Anambra State, against submitting their NINs to unauthorised platforms or persons, particularly in return for monetary compensation.
“At no time should NIN holders give out their NINs for monetary compensation. This is against the laws of the Federation,” Adegoke emphasized.
The Commission advised members of the public to report suspicious or indiscriminate NIN collection activities via email at [email protected] or by calling 07002255646 or 01923000010.
NIMC expressed appreciation to all security agencies for their support in maintaining the integrity of the national identity enrolment process.
