Former Minister of Communication and Digital Economy, Isa Ali Pantami, has expressed his concerns over the underutilization of the National Identification Number (NIN) and Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) policy in fighting crimes.
He was reacting to a social media user who questioned the rationale behind the NIN as regards the kidnap of a family in Abuja, which led to the death of Nabeeha, one of the victims.
Pantami said: “Thank you, for the question. NIN-SIM policy has been working. However, the relevant institutions fighting criminality are to be requested to ensure they utilise it effectively when a crime is committed.
“Lack of utilising it is the main problem, not the policy. While in office, I know 3 instances where the policy was utilised, and it led to the success of their operations.
“On the lack of utilisation, I am more worried than anyone, as my life was threatened by criminals for reintroducing it, including on BBC Hausa & and national dailies, I resisted and ensured its implementation.
“If it is not being utilised by the relevant institutions in charge of securing lives and property, then I am more frustrated than any person, as I sacrificed my life and ignored all the threats to life. This is just a point out of 100 on the policy.
“May the Almighty rescue all the kidnapped and bring absolute peace and stability to Nigeria, and may He (SWT) continue to guide our leaders and help them always in discharging their responsibilities.
“I am personally not in support of paying ransom to criminals. However, since it becomes clear, we lost our daughter Nabeeha yesterday, and the 5 remaining daughters have been threatened, as I spoke with the father on the matter yesterday and today.
“Furthermore, I spoke with a friend and a brother who offered to pay the remaining 50 million Naira of the 60m immediately. I conveyed the account number of the father of pur daughters, Mansoor Al-Kadriyar, to the friend and brother to send the money directly.
“Any additional amount earlier generated from yesterday, the father can use to treat the daughters and other family members in sha Allah.”
The NIN-SIM policy, introduced by Pantami, was aimed at improving national security by linking every number to the NIN, making it easier for security operatives to trace criminals using the database.
