The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has issued a strong warning to Nigerians about the dangers of purchasing pre-registered SIM cards, emphasizing that this practice is illegal and could result in severe penalties, including imprisonment.

The NCC warned that individuals using pre-registered SIM cards might unintentionally become involved in crimes such as identity theft, financial fraud, kidnapping, and armed robbery.

Furthermore, the NCC noted that pre-registered SIM cards compromise the accuracy of consumer information and hinder efforts to track criminals effectively. Using these SIM cards undermines the reliability of data collected on consumers, making it difficult for authorities to identify and apprehend the true criminals.

The NCC’s message aims to educate the public on the risks associated with pre-registered SIM cards and to encourage adherence to legal guidelines to enhance national security.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Resident Electoral Commissioner for Osun, Dr. Mutiu Agboke, emphasized that ensuring a successful election process in Nigeria is the responsibility of every citizen.

During a courtesy visit to the Vice Chancellor of Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Prof. Simeon Bamire, on Thursday, Agboke highlighted the need for increased collaboration with the university. He also praised the university’s lecturers for their roles as INEC ad-hoc staff during the 2022 gubernatorial and 2023 general elections.

Agboke called for enhanced cooperation between INEC and the university’s academic staff, stressing the importance of innovative thinking to improve the election process. “We appreciate the institution’s members of academia who assisted us during the elections,” he said. “We seek more collaboration, engagement, and stakeholder enlightenment to get it right. No one else can do it for us; we need to think creatively to succeed.”

Prof. Bamire acknowledged INEC’s critical role in Nigerian society and expressed satisfaction with the commission’s efforts, despite some public dissatisfaction with current events in the country. He assured that the university supports INEC and is ready to assist when needed.

The bill addressing wildlife trafficking and habitat destruction passed its second reading in the House of Representatives during Thursday’s plenary session.

Hon. Terseer Ugbor, the bill’s sponsor and representative for Kwande/Ushongo Federal Constituency of Benue State, explained the bill’s general principles, noting that the illegal wildlife trade and trafficking are becoming increasingly dangerous, necessitating legislative action to stop this menace.

Ugbor, who also serves as the Deputy Chairman of the House Committee on Environment, emphasized that the 10th National Assembly must address pressing issues like illegal wildlife trade, habitat loss, and the decline of Nigeria’s unique wildlife populations, aligning the country with global best practices.

He stated that Nigeria’s legal framework on wildlife needs a review to effectively combat poachers and traffickers, who are a significant challenge.

“The bill aims to enhance the capabilities of law enforcement agencies, grant investigators more power to examine financial matters and conduct intelligence-led operations, and enable judges to expedite wildlife cases and recover assets,” he explained. “It also aligns with international treaties, fosters global cooperation, and introduces stringent penalties for poachers and traffickers.

“By taking a stand against illegal activities targeting our wildlife and forests, we protect our future. This bill represents our commitment to counter the use of our borders for trafficking illegal wildlife products such as pangolin scales and elephant ivory.

“A combination of lack of public awareness, weak legislation, and minimal enforcement has hindered efforts to combat wildlife trafficking and biodiversity loss in Nigeria. Consequently, Nigeria’s wildlife has significantly declined, with species like lions, elephants, gorillas, and chimpanzees nearing extinction,” Ugbor added.

After contributions from other members affirming the importance of protecting endangered species in line with international treaties, Deputy Speaker Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu passed the bill for a second reading upon a vote. He then referred it to the House Committee on Environment, instructing them to submit their report within two weeks.