The Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) has initiated a forensic inquiry into the University of Lagos, Lotus Bank, and Hackerbella Ltd. This action follows reports that student information was utilized to open bank accounts without proper authorization. Babatunde Bamigboye, the commission’s Head of Legal, Enforcement and Regulations, announced that National Commissioner Vincent Olatunji has mandated a thorough investigation into the matter.
The probe aims to clarify the roles of these entities regarding how sensitive student data was collected, shared, and processed. Authorities will evaluate compliance with the Nigeria Data Protection Act of 2023, specifically focusing on data-sharing practices, privacy disclosures, and the use of automated decision-making. Furthermore, the commission intends to assess potential risks to the privacy and rights of the students involved.
Attempts to reach officials at UNILAG, Lotus Bank, and Hackerbella Ltd for comment remained unsuccessful as of the time of reporting. In his official statement, Bamigboye emphasized that educational institutions have a duty to handle personal information securely and transparently. He also issued a reminder to all academic bodies to adhere strictly to existing data protection mandates to maintain responsible governance.
