The Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) says it will investigate the alleged unauthorised access to the personal data of enrollees by the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC).

NDPC national commissioner Vincent Olatunji said this in a statement in Abuja on Sunday.

“This investigation is a further regulatory measure to be taken by NDPC in the wake of public concerns over reports of illegal access to personal data of enrollees by a shadowy entity called XpressVerify.com,” Mr Olatunji said.

He recalled that the NDPC had been engaging with the NIMC on fostering the adequacy of data protection and consequently held a workshop in February.

According to him, this is one in a continuum of measures being implemented by the Federal Government to ensure data privacy and protection.

“We note that NIMC has initiated internal investigation and it has immediately given full assurance of cooperation with NDPC.

“NDPC will get to the root of the allegation and review existing mediums through which any entity may lawfully verify the identity of enrollees on its platform.

“Furthermore, NDPC will work with relevant agencies to audit the trails of the alleged unauthorised data processing and monetisation of the same,” he said.

Mr Olatunji noted that those found culpable for violating the Nigeria Data Protection Act, 2023, would be brought to justice.

He further directed that preliminary findings of the investigation should be made public within seven days.

(NAN)