KEY POINTS
- Atiku warns of potential manipulation of NBS data.
- He emphasizes that NBS data is vital for national development.
- The former VP calls for vigilance and protection of NBS data.
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has expressed alarm over claims that the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) website was hacked. He described the development as “disturbing and unprecedented,” warning of its potential impact on Nigeria’s progress.
The statement, issued by his Media Office, drew attention to the seriousness of the incident, especially since it coincides with the recent release of the bureau’s Crime Experience and Security Perception Survey (CESPS).
Atiku raised suspicions over the timing of the hacking, suggesting that it could be an attempt to undermine the credibility of data used for national development.
“The claim that the NBS website was hacked is an unprecedented and disturbing development,” Atiku said.
According to Vanguard, he added that the integrity of NBS data is critical for planning, research, and development, and warned that tampering with the bureau’s data could have dire consequences for the nation.
Data manipulation is a threat to Nigeria’s development
Atiku did not mince words when highlighting the dangers posed by the possible manipulation of NBS data.
He stressed that compromising the accuracy of statistics would negatively affect national growth, especially when key development policies rely on credible information.
“These are strange times in Nigeria, and it is hoped that this is not an attempt to undermine the integrity of data used for vital national purposes,” he said. “Manipulating statistics for political reasons is counterproductive.”
The former Vice President noted that NBS data plays a central role in shaping the government’s approach to security, health, and economic planning.
He emphasized that efforts to undermine data credibility could have a ripple effect on Nigeria’s development, as it would create room for misinformation and misinformed policies.
He questioned the motive behind the alleged hacking, stating that its timing, just after the release of the Crime Experience and Security Perception Survey, raises legitimate concerns.
“The coincidence of this so-called hack occurring shortly after the release of damning security statistics is suspicious,” he said.
Atiku urges government to protect NBS data integrity
To prevent future breaches, Atiku called on relevant authorities, particularly President Bola Tinubu’s administration, to ensure that the NBS operates without political interference.
He urged the government to protect the bureau’s data from manipulation, which he believes is essential for Nigeria’s progress and stability.
Furthermore, he called for vigilance and transparency in the handling of national statistics, reiterating that NBS plays a vital role in evidence-based decision-making.
“The integrity of NBS data must be protected at all costs,” Atiku stated. “Once the public loses trust in the credibility of our statistics, it will be difficult to regain confidence in the country’s development agenda.”
However, his remarks come amid growing concerns that political interference could erode the trust and reliability of government institutions.
Many believe that preserving the integrity of NBS data is critical to national growth, especially in areas such as poverty reduction, job creation, and security.
Atiku’s statement has sparked a call for increased oversight and accountability within government agencies.
His stance highlights the urgent need to protect NBS data from breaches and ensure that national planning is guided by facts, not political motives.
