By John Joseph
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A staggering data breach has been uncovered by Paradigm Initiative, a leading digital rights advocacy organization, affecting a whopping 43 million Nigerians. This revelation comes as the organization takes legal action against the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC), Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), and other government agencies, alleging systemic violations of citizens’ digital rights.
At the heart of the issue is the alleged breach of national databases by hackers, resulting in the unauthorized access and sale of personal data, including National Identity Numbers (NINs), home addresses, phone numbers, and passport details. The executive director of Paradigm Initiative, Gbenga Sesan, emphasized that the breach potentially affects up to 43 million Nigerians, highlighting the severity of the situation.
The organization seeks to establish that the breach was real and had far-reaching consequences.
Invoke the powers of the Nigeria Data Protection Act. Paradigm Initiative aims to hold the responsible parties accountable and ensure that they face sanctions for their negligence.
Ensure accountability and sanctions for responsible parties. The organization seeks to guarantee that those responsible for the breach are held accountable and face the necessary consequences.
Sesan criticized the government’s handling of the breach, particularly NIMC’s repeated denial of any breach. He pointed out the contradictions in the government’s response, including the Minister’s call for an investigation and the Data Protection Commission’s acknowledgment of a fine.
The data breach has significant implications for national security, raising questions about the reliability of government systems meant to protect sensitive information. Sesan expressed concern about the use of third-party vendors in managing national data, emphasizing the need for stricter oversight.
The lawsuit seeks to address the issues comprehensively, calling for greater accountability from agencies entrusted with citizens’ data. Sesan challenged the government to clarify discrepancies in its handling of the breach and ensure that ordinary Nigerians are not left vulnerable to exploitation.
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