In a recent public statement, Nigerian lawyer and political figure Daniel Bwala claimed that criminal elements in Nigeria, particularly bandits and kidnappers are using foreign internet services like Starlink to evade security agencies.
While the underlying concern is valid, the specific claim lacks verified evidence and oversimplifies a complex issue.
What Holds True
Bwala is correct on a few general points:
– Nigeria has regulatory bodies such as the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) and the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) that oversee telecoms and digital services.
– For domestic internet providers, security agencies can—with legal authorization—trace IP addresses to a subscriber’s general location.
– Globally, criminal groups do exploit encrypted communication tools and cross-border digital infrastructure to avoid detection.
Where the Claim Falls Short
1. No Evidence Ties Bandits to Starlink
There is no publicly confirmed report from Nigerian defense or intelligence agencies that bandits actively use Starlink. The terminals are costly, require fixed installation with a clear sky view, and are not easily portable, making them impractical for mobile armed groups operating in remote areas.
2. Tracking Is Complicated, Not Impossible
While foreign-based services can slow an investigation, they do not make tracking “impossible.” International legal frameworks, such as Mutual Legal Assistance Treaties (MLATs), exist for cross-border cooperation. Major tech companies often comply with lawful requests from governments.
3. Misunderstanding of IP Tracking
An IP address does not provide real-time, precise location data like GPS. It usually identifies a service area and an account holder—not the exact user at a given moment.
4. Overlooks Bigger Security Challenges
Security analysts emphasize that Nigeria’s fight against banditry faces deeper issues: inadequate personnel, poor coordination between agencies, funding gaps, and socio-economic drivers of crime. Blaming foreign technology can divert attention from these systemic problems.
Important Context
– Starlink is legally licensed to operate in Nigeria by the NCC and is largely used by individuals and businesses in areas with poor connectivity.
– Bandits are far more likely to use inexpensive, accessible tools: unregistered SIM cards, burner phones, and common encrypted apps like WhatsApp or Signal.
– Statements like Bwala’s sometimes fit a political narrative that attributes security failures to foreign technology rather than addressing governance and operational shortcomings.
Daniel Bwala’s claim appears to take a hypothetical concern and present it as established fact. While criminals may indeed use any available technology, there is no credible proof that Starlink is a significant tool for Nigerian bandits, nor that it critically hampers security operations.
Verdict: Mostly false. The statement contains elements of truth but is misleading in its specifics and exaggerates both the capability of criminals and the inability of security agencies to respond.
