A troubling incident has sparked public concern after a Nigerian woman revealed that her father was arrested by the Department of State Services (DSS) over a mobile phone line allegedly linked to kidnappers—despite the number having been reassigned to him by a network provider.
According to the account shared online, the SIM card had previously been used by suspected kidnappers before the telecom operator retrieved and recycled it, later issuing the same number to her father as a brand–new line. Unaware of its history, the man reportedly used the line normally until security operatives traced it and picked him up.
The incident has ignited criticism of the long-standing practice among Nigerian mobile network providers of reassigning previously used numbers to new customers, often without disclosure.
Digital rights advocates say the case highlights the risks associated with SIM recycling, warning that individuals could become entangled in criminal investigations due to activities carried out by previous owners of the number.
Security analysts also stressed the need for telcos to improve data management, verification procedures, and transparency, noting that recycled numbers can expose innocent users to wrongful arrest, fraud, and other liabilities.
As the family continues to call for the man’s release and proper investigation, many Nigerians are urging authorities and telecom regulators to implement stricter policies to prevent such incidents and protect law-abiding citizens.
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