The Department of State Services (DSS) has filed a three-count criminal charge against former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, over his alleged involvement in the unlawful interception of the telephone communications of the National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu.
The charge, marked FHC/ABJ/CR/99/2026, was filed on Monday before the Federal High Court of Nigeria, Abuja Division.
According to court documents, the alleged offences stem from statements made by El-Rufai during an appearance on Arise TV’s Prime Time Programme in Abuja on February 13, 2026.
In the first count, the prosecution alleged that El-Rufai admitted during the televised interview that he and unnamed associates unlawfully intercepted the phone communications of Ribadu. The DSS contends that the alleged act contravenes Section 12(1) of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Amendment Act, 2024, which criminalises unlawful interception of electronic communications.
The second count accused the former governor of stating during the same interview that he knew and maintained contact with an individual who carried out the unlawful interception, without reporting the individual to relevant security agencies. The charge is said to be punishable under Section 27(b) of the amended Cybercrimes Act, 2024.
In the third count, El-Rufai and others said to be at large were accused of using technical equipment or systems to intercept the NSA’s communications, thereby allegedly compromising public safety and national security. The prosecution argued that the action instilled reasonable apprehension of insecurity among Nigerians. This count was brought under Section 131(2) of the Nigerian Communications Act, 2003.
The DSS maintains that the alleged admissions made during the televised programme form a critical component of its case. The matter is expected to come up for arraignment before the court in Abuja.
As of press time, El-Rufai had not publicly responded to the charge. Legal observers say the case could test the scope of Nigeria’s cybercrime and telecommunications laws, particularly regarding admissions made during media interviews and their evidentiary implications in criminal proceedings.
The development marks a significant escalation in tensions within Nigeria’s political and security landscape, with potential ramifications for public discourse on national security matters.