The National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) has revealed that operatives from the Department of State Security and the Nigeria Police Force have apprehended individuals involved in the unlawful collection of National Identity Numbers (NIN) in Anambra State.
This follows a warning from the commission to Nigerians, advising them not to share their National Identity Numbers with unauthorized individuals in exchange for money.
The warning was issued by NIMC spokesperson, Dr. Kayode Adegoke, in a statement on Wednesday.
This comes after reports that some residents in Anambra have been providing their NIN to unauthorized individuals in return for payment.
In response, NIMC stated that these actions violate the NIMC Act No. 23 of 2007, the Data Protection Act, and the Cyber Crime Act.
The commission stated that those responsible for the act have been arrested by operatives from the Department of State Security and the Nigeria Police Force.
“Upon receiving the information on the activities of the unscrupulous individuals, NIMC, in conjunction with the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Nigeria Police Force (NPF), swiftly arrested the culprits behind the illegal collection of the NIN.
“They are currently being interrogated and will be made to face the full wrath of the law. The commission, therefore, advises Anambra State residents and Nigerians to avoid submitting their NINs to unauthorised individuals, organisations, or platforms, as the Federal Government and NIMC have not authorised this. Anyone caught will be sanctioned appropriately.
“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.
“The Commission had earlier issued a statement warning Nigerians against sharing their NIN or data with anyone or on any fictitious sites. The NIN can only be used by the holders to access government or private sector services, and it must be verified.
“The Commission has taken necessary measures to kerb the activities of these unscrupulous individuals,” NIMC stated.
