The National Commissioner of the Nigeria Data Protection Commission, Dr. Vincent Olatunji, has initiated a comprehensive investigation into allegations of unauthorized access to the personal data of enrollees in the database of the National Identity Management Commission.
Olatunji’s directive comes in response to public concerns over reports of illegal access to personal data by a shadowy entity known as XpressVerify.com.
“We note that NIMC has initiated internal investigation and it has immediately given full assurances of cooperation with NDPC to get to the root of the allegation,” Olatunji stated in a statement.
He further emphasized NDPC’s commitment to collaborating with relevant agencies to audit the alleged unauthorized data processing and monetization, ensuring that those found guilty of violating the Nigeria Data Protection Act, 2023 face justice.
Additionally, Olatunji directed that preliminary findings of the investigation should be made public within seven days.
In response, the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) reiterated its commitment to data protection and privacy, affirming that there has been no breach of data in Nigeria’s National Identity Database.
Meanwhile, NIMC’s Director-General and Chief Executive Officer, Engr. Abisoye Coker-Odusote, has ordered a thorough investigation into the matter to determine if any of the Commission’s Tokenisation verification agents breached the licensing agreement.
Coker-Odusote reassured Nigerians of NIMC’s unwavering dedication to safeguarding citizens’ data, stating, “Top-level security is in place to protect the NIN and other personal data of every citizen and legal resident.”
