Former Minister Pantami Blames Security Agencies for Crime Surge, Cites Underutilisation of NIN-SIM Data in Crime Fighting
Former Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Isa Pantami, has criticized Nigerian security agencies for failing to effectively utilize data generated from the National Identity Number (NIN) linked to Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) cards in combating crimes such as kidnapping.
In 2020, the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari mandated the linking of SIM cards to citizens’ NIN. Failure to comply resulted in the disconnection of phone lines. Bashir Ahmad, a media aide to Mr. Buhari, recently called for stricter penalties, including the death penalty for banditry and kidnapping.
Responding to a tweet questioning the effectiveness of the NIN-SIM registration process, Pantami defended the policy, stating that the problem lies in the lack of effective utilization by the relevant security institutions. He expressed frustration, citing personal threats he received for championing the policy.
The former minister emphasized the importance of the NIN-SIM policy in combating crime and highlighted his personal sacrifices to ensure its implementation. Despite the policy’s existence, criminals continue to operate using phones without being apprehended, raising questions about the effectiveness of its implementation.
When approached for comments, the Nigerian Police spokesperson, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, declined to respond directly to Pantami’s remarks, stating that the police would address any issues holistically. Similarly, the Nigerian Army spokesperson, Onyeama Nnwanchukwu, did not provide a response to inquiries.
Pantami’s criticism underscores concerns about the effectiveness of the NIN-SIM policy in addressing security challenges. While the policy aimed to enhance security measures, its impact on crime prevention remains a subject of debate.
Peoples Gazette
