Yemisi Izuora
The House of Reps has demanded from the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) for extension of the new policy on linking SIM cards to the National Identity Number (NIN) by 10 weeks.
The NCC, on Tuesday, December 15, announced that SIM cards not linked to the NIN number by December 31; should be deregistered by telecom operators.
The resolution followed a motion of urgent public importance moved by the Reps Minority Leader; Ndudi Elumelu on Wednesday during plenary.
Elumelu explained that the House of Reps agrees with the policy of linking SIM cards to NIN; adding that the policy is consistent with the position of the House.
He disclosed that the House of Reps even made recommendations to the NCC recently regarding the policy.
Elumelu noted that the House of Reps is worried about the time; which he stated will lead to further hardship on Nigerians.
“As laudable as the policy is, Nigerians have not been properly sensitized. In this yuletide season, it could lead to stampede and exploitation.”
The Reps Committee on Communications was mandated to ensure compliance.